Sikkim Cricket Ground set to host its first-ever Ranji Trophy match

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has given the green light to Sikkim Cricket Ground in order to host its first-ever Ranji Trophy match starting December 13, 2022.

Situated at Majhitar near Rangpo, the stadium will host at least three Ranji Trophy matches this season, which will see the hosts Sikkim challenging Manipur first (December 13 to 16) and will then take on Mizoram (December 27 to 30) before facing Arunachal Pradesh in the second week (January 10 to 13) of the new year (2023). 

Owned by the Sikkim Cricket Association (SiCA), the two-year-old stadium is 40 kilometres away from the state capital Gangtok. BCCI’s manager of cricket operations, Mr Anant Datar recently inspected the ground, its facilities, and infrastructure and was impressed with the development, which eventually played a part in the stadium getting to host its first major match.

“It gives us pleasure to inform that the BCCI Official was impressed with the Sikkim Cricket Association’s recently developed facility. Cricket has developed and seen massive growth in the past three years, this would not have been possible without the support of the BCCI and the Government of Sikkim,” a statement from SiCA read.

Three out of nine patches can be used for matches: SiCA official

In the absence of a proper cricket ground, the Sikkim cricketers always had to head out to prepare themselves before any tournament. However, now with the new stadium ready, they can train on their home turf before any tournament.

Talking about the stadium dynamics and infrastructure, an official of the Sikkim Cricket Association revealed that out of nine patches in the centre, three can be used for the upcoming matches. He also shared an update on the two-storied pavilion and other facilities.

“The ground now has nine pitches at the centre, three of which can be used for matches properly. The two-storied pavilion will be completed in about 10 days. The lower floor will be for the use of players and officials and the upper one to seat the VIPs,” said the official.