On Sunday, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia inaugurated a new private indoor cricket facility created by the Aakriida Centre of Excellence in Guwahati. The event was attended by several former state players, with Saikia acknowledging the contribution of the late Hirendra Kumar Dutta’s family in providing the land for the facility. He highlighted the significance of this indoor center, particularly in a region with a 6–7-month rainy season, allowing cricketers to train 24/7 regardless of weather. Saikia also pointed out the importance of mental health and counseling in developing athletes, stressing that many skilled players from the Northeast fail to reach national levels due to a lack of mental preparedness. He expressed hopes that new Aakriida facilities alongside the ACA’s expansions in Barpeta, Dhemaji, and Bokakhat will groom future cricket talents akin to Riyan Parag and Uma Chetry. The Aakriida facility, named after the Sanskrit term for “play,” aims to build a nurturing environment for young cricketers, fostering discipline, unity, and perseverance. It features the Hirendra Kumar Dutta indoor cricket arena along with comprehensive training amenities including Bola machines, performance video analysis, separate facilities for boys and girls, and a team of coaches, physios, and counselors. Located in the heart of Guwahati, the center aspires to enhance the visibility of cricket and facilitate local youth’s journey into the Indian national cricket framework, thus promoting a sense of belonging and accomplishment.
