Former India cricketer and BCCI Chief Selector MSK Prasad has been appointed Team Director of Venice Livewires ahead of the upcoming Italia T10 League, bringing his experience in international cricket administration, player recruitment and talent development to the Italian franchise.
The appointment strengthens the franchise’s cricket management structure as it prepares to compete in the six-team tournament, scheduled to take place from November 18 to 29 at the Roma Cricket Ground.
Prasad outlines ambitions for Venice Livewires
The former India wicketkeeper-batter brings experience across international cricket, national team selection and Indian Premier League franchise operations to his new position.
Venice Livewires Team Director and former BCCI Chief Selector MSK Prasad said in an official statement: “I am happy to be part of Venice Livewires for the Italia T10 League. Italy has good potential for cricket, and I look forward to using my experience to help build a competitive team and identify talented players. I also hope to contribute towards creating more opportunities for young cricketers and supporting the growth of the game in the country.”
The Italia T10 League will also feature other prominent international cricket figures, with former Australia batter Shaun Marsh joining Milan Icons and former England fast bowler James Anderson taking on the roles of Co-owner and Captain at Napoli Knights.
Experience across Indian cricket administration
Prasad represented India in six Test matches and 17 One-Day Internationals before moving into cricket administration and selection.
He subsequently served as Chairman of the BCCI Senior Men’s Selection Committee from 2016 to 2020, overseeing national team selection during a period that included India’s first Test series victory in Australia in 2018–19.
India also finished as runners-up in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup during his tenure.
Beyond his work with the national selection committee, Prasad held positions with Indian Premier League franchise Lucknow Super Giants as Strategic Consultant and Director of Talent Search and Academies.
Those responsibilities involved player scouting and development, providing experience relevant to his latest franchise appointment.
Venice Livewires leadership structure
Prasad joins a management group that includes Arvind Tadakamalla, Managing Director of Livewires Advertising Private Limited, and TNR Mohit, Executive Director of Venice Livewires.
Mohit has experience in competitive and franchise cricket, having previously captained Doiwala Kings. He also owns Nainital Tigers, a team he has represented as a player.
Focus on developing cricket talent in Italy
Prasad said in an official statement: “Grassroots development is essential for building a strong cricketing ecosystem, and I am excited to work towards identifying local talent, encouraging young cricketers and helping the sport grow at the grassroots level. Italia T10 presents an exciting platform to bring international cricketing experience together with local talent.”
