By Our Reporter
Shillong, May 17: Meghalaya Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri announced on Friday that plans are underway to construct a major stadium for hosting cricket matches in Ri Bhoi district. This announcement came as a response to concerns that the government prioritises football over cricket.
Addressing the media, Warjri clarified that the government is equally committed to developing cricket infrastructure.
He also provided an update on the ongoing renovation of the JN Stadium, assuring that the state-of-the-art project will be completed by December.
Furthermore, Warjri acknowledged the pressing need for enhanced sports infrastructure in Shillong and revealed that the government has comprehensive plans to develop such facilities across the city.
In support of the Minister’s statements, Naba Bhattacherjee, President of the Meghalaya Cricket Association, emphasized the critical role of government support in developing sports infrastructure.
“Without government support, most sports infrastructure is not feasible. The sports minister is absolutely right; cricket is no exception,” Bhattacherjee told The Shillong Times.
Bhattacherjee highlighted that the main cricket ground at Polo was allocated by the government, with additional infrastructure and maintenance funded by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He also mentioned that the government has agreed in principle to allocate land for a cricket ground at the proposed multi-sports complex in Mawkhanu, New Shillong Township.
The Meghalaya Cricket Association plans to seek further support from both the government and BCCI to develop this facility.
Additionally, Bhattacherjee outlined ongoing projects, including the establishment of an indoor practice facility in Kurkalang, which is being developed directly by the BCCI on leased land from the Lumdaitkhla Dorbar Shnong and endorsed by the RBDSA.
The remaining land in Kurkalang will be used to create a fully equipped cricket ground. Similar initiatives are planned for Nongkhrah in Ri Bhoi and Mawten in Mawkyrwat.
Moreover, the second major ground in Allotgre, Tura, is being developed on land leased from the TSA.
Expressing gratitude, Bhattacherjee acknowledged the cooperation and support from various organizations and reiterated the request for government assistance in setting up additional cricket facilities and infrastructure in Kurkalang.
This proactive approach signals a promising future for cricket in Meghalaya, ensuring balanced development of sports infrastructure across the state.
