No politics, promises Vilasrao Deshmukh

In a political career spanning over four decades, embattled former chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh has seen several up and downs. As a CM he had achieved the distinction of serving for the longest period after VP Naik. Now, he has embarked upon a new mission - to take over the reins of the prestigious Mumbai Cricket Association, which was headed by his arch political rival Sharad Pawar.
In an exclusive interview to TOI, Deshmukh spoke at length on various topics, including his agenda for the MCA. Excerpts:
Is your entry in the MCA polls unexpected?
Not at all. Ever since I was elected MCA vice-president 2 years ago, I was planning to contest for president's post.
Your arch political rival Sharad Pawat too was planning to contest...
It's a fact that he was planning to contest. However, he has dropped out for technical reasons. It's a straight contest between me and Dilip Vengsarkar now. Pawar has extended full support to me. I feel it'll be a cakewalk for me.
If you are elected, what will be your agenda?
I have drafted a multi-pronged strategy for the development of cricket. I have proposed to develop playgrounds in eastern suburbs. Lease agreements of most of the 60-odd gymkhanas are due for expiry. We will ensure all these are renewed.
There is strong opposition to entry of politicians in sports organisations...
In my opinion, there is nothing wrong if politicians take active part in sports organizations provided they don't bring politics in its day-to-day affairs.
Will there be political interference in MCA affairs?
The role of politicians is very limited. In fact, politicians are the link between the government and MCA. My efforts will be ensure more presence of Mumbai boys at the national level.
Your rival Dilip Vengsarkar has accused you of indulging in politics...
There is no politics in MCA polls. In fact, I am in the fray not as a Congress leader, but as an independent candidate. He himself has sought the blessing of a politician.