Thycaud, Trivandrum:  It was on 17 September 1950 that Col. GV Raja founded the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA). On its 60th year, his portrait was unveiled in the office of the KCA here, by the titular head of erstwhile Travancore, Uthradom Thirunal Marthanda Varma. Minister for Ports and Youth Welfare V Surendran Pillai inaugurated the KCA website, museum and library.

Maharaja Uthradom Thirunal Marthanda Varma unveils the portrait of Col. GV Raja at the KCA office

“I took this photo,” said the Maharaja, after unveiling the photo of his brother-in-law. “It was in 1934 that he (GV Raja) became a member of the family. He had such passion and love for the game; I am really happy to see that the KCA that he founded is doing so well.”

“I have learned every other sport except cricket,” he added with a smile.

Minister Surendran Pillai said: “Col. GV Raja contributed a lot to the sports society. He was instrumental in the founding of a number of initiatives in Trivandrum like the Trivandrum Tennis Club, the Trivandrum Club, the airport, the Aviation Academy and so on. He has led our state to the world of sports. It is very good that the KCA decided to honour him. I am glad to see the association going in the right direction.”

“Till now there was no picture of Col. GV Raja, in our office. Somehow we feel it may be because of this that the Kerala Cricket team is not performing well,” said KCA Secretary TC Mathew.