Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announced that a cricket academy would soon be developed in the state under the initiative of the Tripura Cricket Association.

He also emphasized that physical fitness is essential to become a good player. “The state government has given priority to selecting good players through a transparent process,” said Dr. Saha.

He was speaking at the annual award ceremony for the 2024-25 cricket season organized by the Tripura Cricket Association at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala today.

Later, Dr. Saha said that a strong sports community has been created in the state. The program was organized in the presence of the BCCI secretary and members.

“Today, the BCCI secretary made an important announcement for which the people of Tripura have been eagerly waiting—international standard games will soon be held in the state. Soon after arriving at the airport, the BCCI secretary visited the under-construction cricket stadium, which will have seating capacity for more than 22,000 spectators. He was quite pleased with the progress of the construction and assured that the stadium will be completed within the next six months,” Dr. Saha added.

The Chief Minister emphasized that if funds come for improving the quality of sports, they should be utilized properly.

“All facilities should be provided to the players. Cricket is a gentleman’s game, first played in England by children, and today it has reached a remarkable level. A cricket academy is going to be set up here, which will benefit our players greatly. I have visited a few places in South India for this purpose, where proper arrangements exist for training. The government will extend full support to establish such an academy in our state. At the same time, players must develop the habit of regular practice. India has produced many legendary cricketers, who became icons only through hard work. Our players should follow the guidance of their coaches. To bring out new talent, cricket tournaments must also be organized across all subdivisions. There is no shortage of talent among the children of Tripura,” he said.

Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, BCCI Secretary Debajit Saikia, BCCI Apex Council Member Mamun Majumder, Tripura Cricket Association Vice President Upananda Debbarma, Secretary Subrata Dey, Treasurer Basudeb Chakraborty, Advisor Tapan Lodh, along with other eminent personalities and sportspersons, were present as distinguished guests at the event.