Fund-starved women's baseball team hopes for government help
23 Jul 2008, 1515 Hrs

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Ludhiana, July 23 (ANI): The girl's baseball team of Punjab is facing hard times because of lack of funds.

In India, cricket runs in the hearts and nerves of every citizen. And has become tough for other sports to stir some enthusiasm amongst the viewers. The Punjab girls aspire to participate in the upcoming women's world baseball cup to be hosted in Japan in August this year. But what stops them from fulfilling their aspiration is insufficient finance.

The five girls who have practiced their soul out to gain expertise in the game belong to poor families who are unable to support their trip.

Amateur baseball federation of India has given them a total budget of just Rs.50,000.

"There is a problem of finance as the federation has asked for Rs.50,000 for the ticket and Rs.20,000 for fees. These kids cannot afford that much. Our Chief Minister P.S. Badal speaks about promoting sports. I would request him to fund us so that these girls can make the nation proud," said Harbir Singh Gill, a coach.

"Our families cannot afford Rs.50,000 for ticket and Rs.25,000 for extra charges all Rs.75,000. We want the government to help us," said, Navdeep Kaur, a baseball player.

After practicing hard for four years, hopes of these girls hinge on government aid, but so far nothing is forthcoming either from the Government or any NGO. By Karan Kapoor (ANI)