SACA Board Nomination 2020 | Natasha Malani

Thank you for taking the time to consider me for a future position on the SACA Board.

The South Australian Cricket Association is one of the most historic, distinguished and significant organisations in the cultural fabric of South Australia, and while it is an organisation of proud heritage and tradition – both of which should always be recognised – it is also an association that must keep pace with the expectations of a modern and dynamic community. It is a sporting body, but it is also a business, and to be successful, the Board must reflect this.

Recognising the needs of all members

After serving two terms as an elected member for the City of Adelaide, I maintained that I would continue to serve my city and state through organisations that I believe make a positive impact on the community. 

I believe that SACA contributes to the vibrancy of South Australia through cricket – and that encompasses not only the big clubs and the professional players, but also the supporters, the juniors coming up through the ranks, the women making outstanding strides in exciting new spheres, and the veterans who paved the way over many years, the volunteers that keep our clubs alive, the staff and administrators of the organisation, our sponsors and corporate partners, and of course, our loyal members.

Creating connections and changing lives

Through my own background and cricket connections in India and other key cricketing nations, I have seen first-hand how community cricket changes lives. My vision is to change lives and enhance the community through the efficient and effective management of cricket in the state. 

I would bring to the Board, a willingness to listen, a readiness to work hard, a capacity to provide unique skills in business, tourism, hospitality and policy, an enthusiasm to provide fresh outlook and ideas, and, most importantly, an ability to connect.

As a Board member, I would seek to connect the diverse components of SACA, from grass-roots clubs to the national organisation, from the kid in the backyard to the administrator in the office, from the avid spectator who never misses a game to the country member who lives hours from the city.

My promise as SACA's Board Member

Enhancing the membership experience

I would see my role on the Board as someone who focuses on the membership experience as a priority, and the development of cricket across South Australia as an obligation.

While the past months have been incredibly challenging for SACA, I am genuinely optimistic that it can reassert its position as the state’s premier sporting organisation.

The Premier Cricket System is the backbone of cricket in South Australia, and with the PCS carries the history, the impact, the reach and the opportunity for reform. With the findings of the Hussey Review being considered, it is communication, collaboration and respect that will underpin the pathway forward.

Advocacy through government and stakeholder relations

Through my career, my service and my personal background, I have proven myself to be someone who easily connects high level corporate and government relations.

As a member for the City of Adelaide, I was a tireless supporter of the Adelaide Oval Redevelopment, and understood the many challenges and opportunities that this involved.

I have commercial and cricket connections in Australia and India, and would not hesitate to draw on my networks to help enhance the future and prospects of SACA and South Australian cricket in general.

Business acumen, commitment and passion

I offer my strong commercial acumen, a fresh, visionary lens, outstanding leadership skills, deep policy knowledge, and most critically the skill to develop a collaborative culture within a diverse organisation that must carefully balance heritage with progress.

My close connection to cricket stems from my Indian heritage and passion for the business of cricket that offers many community, health and economic benefits. 

In 2015, I was fortunate enough to be able to deliver ‘Dream Team 15’ project for the ICC Cricket World Cup, supporting cricket development in youth.

Diversity and difference

A board that is made up of similar people is rarely an effective driver of policy. Naturally, it is vital that the SACA Board has members who have experience in playing the sport, however, just as vital are those whose experience and passion are in administration and management.

That way, when run in a collaborative fashion, the Board will benefit from diversity and innovation in thinking, fresh approaches to old and new challenges, and a broad spectrum of experience, knowledge and expertise.

As a member who brings diversity, know-how and a track record of service and business success, I am the all-rounder that the SACA Board needs to recover from the ravages of 2020, and thrive into the future. And SACA thrives, South Australian cricket also thrives.

I'm thrilled to be considered for this position on the SACA Board, and look forward to contributing to the ongoing success of cricket in South Australia.

I've outlined my vision for the future of the South Australia Cricket Association on my website.

The voting is now open and I would be grateful if you would take the time to support my nomination by clicking on this link.

Sincerely,

Natasha