Surat, April 11, 2025 — The much-anticipated Surat District Cricket Association (SDCA) election is set to take place on Sunday, April 13, in what is shaping up to be more than just a contest between two rival panels. This year, the election has taken a dramatic familial turn as Yesha and Akshara Contractor, daughters of the late SDCA president Hemant Contractor, have entered the fray against their uncle, Kanhaiyalal Contractor.
The contest is between the Stadium Panel and the Hemant Contractor Panel, with both camps presenting contrasting visions for the future of Surat cricket. Notably, for the first time, women candidates are playing a prominent role in the election, which has garnered attention from across the city. More than 5,000 members are expected to cast their votes.
Under the slogan “No repetition, no imitation – we bring innovation,” Yesha Contractor is leading a youthful team that has pledged to bring systemic reforms to the cricketing administration. The panel promises the construction of an international cricket stadium in Surat and greater opportunities for local players to compete at the national and T20 levels.
Hemant Contractor, who served as SDCA president starting in 2021, is remembered for his transformative tenure. At the time he took office, the association faced a debt of ₹14 crore, which he not only repaid within four years but also added ₹45 crore in fixed deposits to SDCA’s reserves. His leadership saw the development of an indoor cricket academy, a state-of-the-art gym, a new court, and expanded seating in the pavilion.
Yesha and Akshara have expressed their commitment to continuing their father's legacy of simplicity, transparency, and forward-thinking governance. They have emphasized their vision of a cricket administration rooted in innovation, accountability, and active youth involvement.
The Hemant Contractor Panel comprises a diverse group of professionals from various industries, including legal, textile, finance, engineering, and sports coaching. Among the key members are Vinay Agarwal, Akshara Contractor, Jignesh Contractor, Saurabh Daruwala, and Yasha Contractor herself, who is also the director of an event management company.
This election is not just about leadership change but also about the direction of cricket development in Surat. Voters are faced with a choice between progressive, youth-led innovation and the experience of traditional leadership. The outcome on Sunday will determine whether Surat cricket embraces a modern, inclusive approach or retains its long-standing administrative model.
