Politicians in sports necessary: Farooq Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) president Farooq Abdullah today said presence of politicians in sports administration was necessary for promoting the games.

"If the politicians leave things (sports administration) alone, then nothing will be done. Politicians have keys to open doors which others do not have," Abdullah told reporters.

Abdullah, president of National Conference and Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, was responding to questions on the role of politicians in cricket administration following defeat of former India captain Dileep Vengsarkar to Maharashtra political heavyweight Vilasrao Deshmukh in Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) polls.

"They (former players) cannot do what the politicians can get done. They cannot move .... Politicians in sports administration are necessary," Abdullah, who has been at helm of JKCA for past three decades, said.

On the development of game in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said the foundation stone for two international standard cricket stadiums -- one each in the valley and Jammu region -- will be laid soon.

"The work on constructing the road leading to stadium at Jammu will be started soon. We will be seeking help of the army to construct the road which will be used for transporting the construction material to the site," he said.

He said the stadium in Kashmir will be constructed in Ganderbal district as land is easily available there. "It is located close to Srinagar and land is also easily available. Besides, the Central University is also coming up there,"