BCCI Greenlights Chandigarh's First International Indoor Cricket Facility
In a landmark move for cricket infrastructure in the region, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has granted approval for the construction of an international-level indoor cricket facility in Chandigarh. This initiative marks the first of its kind for the city, aimed at enhancing training capabilities and nurturing local talent.
Approval Process and Requirements
The proposal was cleared by the BCCI's apex council, with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia formally communicating the decision to the Union Territory Cricket Association (UTCA). In his letter, Saikia outlined the specific requirements for establishing the facility, prompting the UTCA to approach the Punjab governor and Chandigarh administrator for land allotment. The association has expressed readiness to provide all necessary documentation and facilitate site inspections to accelerate the process.
Expansion of BCCI's Infrastructure Initiatives
This development follows the BCCI's recent approval and construction of similar indoor cricket facilities-cum-academies in six northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim. Sanjay Tandon, former UTCA president and current governing council member of the BCCI's Women's Premier League (WPL), highlighted that he raised the Chandigarh proposal at a governing meeting, leading to the board's agreement to extend support. The proposed state-of-the-art facilities will include:
- Batting strips
- Automated bowling machines
- Jogging tracks
- A swimming pool
- A gymnasium
Benefits for Cricket Development
In his correspondence, Saikia emphasized that strengthening cricketing infrastructure in Chandigarh will aid in identifying and grooming local talent, providing young aspirants with a structured environment for year-round training. He noted, "The establishment of an indoor cricket facility would enable uninterrupted training irrespective of climatic conditions and contribute to enhanced technical skills, physical conditioning, and coaching standards." The apex council approved the project after assessing its potential to foster broader cricket development interests.
Project Implementation and Land Allotment
The BCCI clarified that the project will be implemented directly under its aegis through an appointed external agency, contingent upon the UTCA securing approximately 5,000 square metres of land at a suitable, well-connected location. Upon receiving documentary confirmation of land allotment, the BCCI will initiate execution through its designated agency. UTCA president Saraansh Tandon welcomed the BCCI's nod, stating, "We are thankful to the BCCI for approving an indoor cricket facility for Chandigarh. We have taken up the matter with the Chandigarh administration for land allotment. Once there is a response, we will approach the BCCI to commence work. As per rough estimates, the initial investment is around Rs 20 crore. The facility will be built to international standards for elite and upcoming players."
Challenges with Land Allotment
Land allotment in Chandigarh requires approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), meaning the UT administration cannot act independently. An official indicated that the proposal is under consideration at the highest administrative level and will be forwarded to the MHA. "Only after the MHA's consent will the issue of allotting 5,000 square metres of land be decided. At current rates, such land would cost approximately Rs 60–65 crore in Chandigarh," the official explained, highlighting the financial and regulatory hurdles involved.
