Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha today outlined plans of the State Government to expand cricket facilities, including a 30-acre academy at Sekerkot, a near-complete international stadium and upgraded practice grounds in several districts.
3 Key Takeaways
- Tripura has allocated 30 acres at Sekerkot for a modern cricket academy that could serve players from across the Northeast.
- The long-awaited international cricket stadium is nearing completion and is expected to host national and international matches.
- The government plans to strengthen grassroots cricket through improved practice facilities in Kailashahar, Belonia and Jirania.
Tripura is preparing to significantly expand its cricket infrastructure, with the state government focusing on facilities for players at both elite and grassroots levels.
Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha said the government has already allocated 30 acres of land at Sekerkot for a modern cricket academy. The proposed facility is expected to become an important training centre for Tripura and the wider northeastern region.
Dr. Saha made the announcement while addressing the Annual Award Distribution Ceremony-2026 organised by the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) at Rabindra Bhavan on Saturday.
The Chief Minister said cricket has gained considerable popularity in Tripura along with other sports. He also pointed to growing parental support for children who want to pursue cricket.
According to Dr. Saha, the TCA and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have played an important role in creating opportunities for Tripura players at the national level.
He assured the TCA of continued government support for the development of cricket in the state.
“The government will continue to provide necessary legal and administrative support to TCA for the development of cricket in the state,” Dr. Saha said.
Sekerkot academy to serve the Northeast
The proposed cricket academy at Sekerkot is one of the key components of the state’s infrastructure expansion plan.
Dr. Saha said the academy would not remain limited to players from Tripura. Players from other northeastern states would also get opportunities to train at the facility in the coming days.
The plan could give the academy a wider regional role. It would also create another dedicated facility for players seeking structured training in the Northeast.
The Chief Minister said the government has taken steps to move the project forward.
International stadium nearing completion
The state is also approaching the completion of another major cricket infrastructure project.
Dr. Saha said construction of the much-awaited international cricket stadium is nearing completion. Once ready, the stadium will provide Tripura with a venue capable of hosting national and international-level matches.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that major cricket fixtures could be organised at the venue very soon.
The proposed stadium is expected to add a new dimension to the state’s cricketing infrastructure. It will also provide a larger platform for players and cricket supporters in Tripura.
Focus on grassroots cricket
The government’s cricket infrastructure plans also extend beyond major facilities.
Dr. Saha said improved practice grounds are being developed in several parts of the state. Kailashahar, Belonia and Jirania are among the places where such facilities are being built.
The initiative aims to encourage cricket at the rural and grassroots levels.
Better local practice facilities can give young players more opportunities to train closer to their homes. The move also reflects the government’s focus on expanding the sport beyond established cricket centres.
CM highlights Tripura cricketers
Dr. Saha also highlighted the achievements of cricketers of the State during the programme.
He specially congratulated Mani Shankar Murasingh for reaching a significant milestone in domestic cricket. Murasingh has become the first cricketer from Tripura to play 100 Ranji Trophy matches.
The Chief Minister also referred to the consistent performances of cricketer Sridam Pal.
He acknowledged the contributions of guest players Hanuma Vihari and Vijay Shankar as well.
Their involvement has added experience and competitive exposure to the State cricket setup, the Chief Minister noted.
Cricketer Abhijit Sarkar felicitated
The ceremony also recognised the recent achievement of Tripura first-class cricketer Abhijit Sarkar.
Dr. Saha felicitated Sarkar for his special achievement in the Duleep Trophy 2026-27.
The Chief Minister also spoke about cricket’s wider social role. He said the sport brings people together and helps them put aside differences based on religion, caste and language.
Sports Minister Tinku Roy, TCA Secretary Subrata Dey, TCA Vice President Upananda Debbarma, Joint Secretary Jayant Dey and other officials attended the event.
The announcements made at the ceremony underline the broader approach of the State government to cricket development, combining major infrastructure projects with training opportunities and grassroots facilities across Tripura.
