WACA board candidate believes WA cricket can be No. 1 in country with the right balance; backs redevelopment

WACA board candidate Himal Doolabh says WA cricket can become the country’s No. 1 State body if the right balance is struck between on and off-field governance. The senior network lead at Telstra is one of five candidates running to fill a vacancy left by KC Tom Percy’s mandatory departure after serving three terms as a director. “I believe the WACA can become Australia’s top cricket body,” Doolabh told The West Australian. “I understand the delicate balance between commercial aspects and core values, ensuring WACA’s sustainability while preserving its rich legacy and history. “I intend to be a strong advocate for players and members. “I want to make sure the members have a world-class facility, that great cricket is always brought to WA. “We need to look after our members – we can’t lose members - but the players are the biggest asset. “Without the players we don’t have cricket, so we need to ensure we can provide them with the best support they can have on-field and off-field, to ensure the success we have seen with the treble over the last two years.” Doolabh backs the proposed $154.7 million WACA Ground redevelopment. “We need to ensure it’s a world-class facility that everyone in the community can enjoy,” he said. “That means opportunities for fans, members and the WA public.” Doolabh said he would equally represent those in metropolitan, regional and country areas. “It doesn’t matter whether you have grown up in the Perth CBD or in country WA, everyone should get the opportunity to be involved,” he said. Grassroots cricket development was a priority, “ensuring talent is nurtured from an early age, making the sport accessible to all communities”. The other candidates are former WA fast bowler Peter Capes, the Subiaco Football Club CEO, Daniel Smith, the executive chair and founder of government and private sector adviser ReGen Strategic, Nathan Grozotis, a government lawyer at the Department of Finance and Darryl Hockey, CEO of the WA Fishing Industry Council. Voting closes at 12pm on September 18. The winning candidate will be announced at the AGM on September 20.