'Announcement aligns perfectly with our vision' - BCA President welcomes centre's sanction for Bihar's sporting future

Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the Union Budget 2024 on July 23. During the budget, she announced a groundbreaking allotment for the Bihar state, as the central government’s interest in developing the sports infrastructure in the state. Cricket is one of the integral parts of the state with MS Dhoni emerging as the face of the region, who went on to become India’s most successful captain.

After the budget, the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) President, Rakesh Tiwari, welcomed the move and said that this will only add to the fervour of the sport in the state while nurturing the young talent. Bihar has not seen any international games since the state was bifurcated, though its brother state, Jharkhand was recently bestowed with the JSCA sports complex, an international cricket stadium.

"Specifically for cricket, these improvements are extremely vital. Our players will now have access to better training grounds, modern amenities, and high-quality facilities, essential for their growth and progress. This announcement aligns perfectly with our vision to elevate Bihar cricket to new heights and to prepare world-class cricketers. On behalf of the Bihar Cricket Association, I reiterate our commitment to supporting this initiative and working with the government to realize these plans," said Tiwari as quoted by Business Standard.

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Bihar shocks the cricketing community during Ranji Trophy

Since Jharkhand and Bihar were split in 2000, Bihar was promoted to the elite tier ahead of the Ranji 2023-24 season. But the start was a forgettable one as two teams from the state walked onto the field to play the Ranji game against Mumbai. The conundrum occurred as the tussle between the presidents of BCA sent their respective teams to play the game over a fight for the position. Having said that, the Moin-ul-Haq Stadium in Patna too came under the scanner for its sub-par infrastructure and outfield.