The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) on Tuesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art cricket ground and pavilion at Naharkatia, marking a significant step towards expanding cricket infrastructure beyond the traditional centres of the state.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the facility in the presence of BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, ACA president and MLA Taranga Gogoi and other dignitaries.
The new complex has five centre pitches, a fully furnished pavilion including match officials’ room and dressing rooms, practice facilities, and infrastructure suitable for hosting domestic matches.
Chief Minister Sarma said the inauguration marked a new beginning for Naharkatia. “This is a proud day for Naharkatia. This initiative will help young cricketers move ahead and fulfil their dreams,” he said.
The Chief Minister also praised the Assam Cricket Association for its efforts to develop cricket infrastructure and promote the sport across the state.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia highlighted the importance of developing cricket facilities outside Guwahati and other established centres, with the new Naharkatia facility expected to strengthen the grassroots cricket pathway in Upper Assam.
“The facility at Naharkatia will also serve as the ACA Cricket Academy’s satellite academy for the Upper Assam Zone in the coming days. This will provide young cricketers in the region with access to structured training and development programmes,” said Saikia.
ACA president Taranga Gogoi said they are proud to play a role in building cricket infrastructure in the state.
He also highlighted the ACA’s vision of taking cricket to every corner of Assam, ensuring that talent from smaller towns and rural areas receives the right platform to grow
The inauguration was also graced by ACA vice president Romen Dutta, joint secretary Rajendra Singh, treasurer Anupam Deka, apex council member Mukutananda Bhattacharjya and former apex council members, besides officials of the Cricket Association of Naharkatia and other guests.
The project is part of the ACA’s efforts to create a wider and more inclusive cricketing network in Assam, with modern facilities and professional training opportunities made available to players in different parts of the state.