Team India on Sunday sealed its pole position in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 after they defeated the mighty South Africa by 243 runs at the Eden Garden. For the past month, India and the cricketing world have been on the World Cup hangover. A report suggested that the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 may add Rs 22000 Crore to the Indian Economy, the famous Jalandhar Sports Industry is facing a slowdown which some also termed as recession.
Yes! you heard it right. Once a hub of sports goods manufacturing, Jalandhar's Sports Industry is reportedly not able to milk the profit from the ongoing Cricket World Cup 2023. Ravinder Dheer, Convenor of Khel Udyog Sangh Sangharsh Samiti Punjab, said, "Hosting the Cricket World Cup is a matter of immense joy and it is like a festival for both cricket lovers and the cricket industry. But, if we talk about the industry, there is no work available for Jalandhar Sports Industry."
"Most of the Team India players do not have made in Jalandhar bats. Some people do have. Most of the Team India players are playing with made-in-Meerut bats."
On being asked why Jalandhar's Sports Industry which was once a hub is now facing a major challenge from Meerut. Ravinder Dheer said, "There are many reasons, but the biggest is the State Government's policies. The sports industry in Meerut was immensely promoted and due to this, we can all see the growth there. Today, Meerut is much ahead of Jalandhar."
On being asked whether there is an issue of quality due to which players are opting for Meerut, Ravinder said, "No, Jalandhar's sports goods' quality is top-notch even today. But, the industry has been left behind due to Government policies. If we talk about players, it is much more related to money. My personal view is that the Jalandhar industry may have not matched the player's expectation and could not provide what they wanted."
Ravinder Dheer further pointed out that due to the festive season in India, there is no focus on the issue. "But is is for sure that there is no work available for the local industry," said Dheer.
It is pertinent to mention here that Jalandhar has supplied cricket kits and bats to top players including MS Dhoni. In fact, former Team India cricketer Harbhajan Singh is also from Jalandhar. Harbhajan Singh is currently busy commentary during the World Cup 2023. Harbhajan Singh is also a Rajya Sabha MP from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)