Agartala, Feb 15: Tripura’s New international cricket stadium is now on the verge of completion, marking a significant step forward in the state’s cricketing history. Located at Narsinghgarh, the stadium, with a seating capacity of 22,000, is poised to become a major venue for both national and international cricket events, significantly enhancing the region’s sporting infrastructure.
The ambitious project, which began in early 2017, was estimated to cost Rs 185 crores. To date, Rs 125 crores have been paid to contractors, with the remaining Rs 20-25 crores expected to cover the final stages of construction.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted progress, work resumed soon after, and the project is now nearing its completion with a targeted finish date of July 2025.
Tapan Lodh, President of the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA), expressed pride in the state’s rich cricketing history. “Cricket in Tripura began in the early 1970s, and since then, the state has actively participated in the Ranji Trophy and national tournaments across various formats. This stadium will elevate the state’s position as a competitive force in Indian cricket,” said Lodh.
The stadium is designed to meet international standards, with 80% of the civil construction already completed.
The cricket ground has been handed over to the TCA, and local tournaments are already taking place at the venue.
However, crucial work remains, including the installation of high-mast LED lights, power metal lights, and the final touches on the steel structure of the top floor.
Once completed, the stadium will meet all the requirements to host major cricket events, including night matches.
The stadium’s construction is part of a broader vision to boost cricket infrastructure in the state, following the recommendations of the Lodha Commission in 2017, which emphasized the expansion of cricket activities at the district level.
The project was further supported by the state government, with Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb playing a key role in ensuring the project’s fast-tracking.
Lodh extended his gratitude to the state government and the Chief Minister for their continued support. “We are grateful for the dedication shown by the state government in bringing this project to fruition. This stadium is one of the most ambitious projects for the development of cricket in Tripura,” he said.
Once completed, the stadium will not only boost local cricket but is also expected to host national tournaments and, with approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), could even be considered for future Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.
This would position Tripura as a prominent hub for elite cricket in the region.
Tripura’s cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the stadium’s final completion, which will offer enhanced opportunities for players and bring global attention to the state’s growing cricketing scene.
The completion of this project will mark a major milestone in the state’s cricketing journey, positioning it to host international events and raise the profile of cricket in the region for years to come.
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