BENGALURU: After years of planning and overcoming several hurdles, the BCCI’s dream of creating a world-class multipurpose facility has finally become a reality with the inauguration of the National Cricket Academy, now renamed the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. The state-of-the-art facility, which had its foundation laid in February 2022, is set to be fully operational by the end of the year.
The project has been in development for over a decade. In 2010, the BCCI purchased 49 acres of land from the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) to establish a home for the National Cricket Academy. However, legal complications stalled the process, with the Karnataka High Court ruling the land acquisition illegal in 2013. The deadlock was finally resolved in 2016, allowing the project to move forward. Now, after spending 24 years at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Centre of Excellence is nearing completion at its new premises.
The facility boasts three international-standard grounds equipped with modern amenities. The main ground, Ground A, features an 85-yard boundary with 13 red soil pitches, seating mounds, and picket fences, giving it a county cricket vibe. While much of the infrastructure is complete, including the grounds and dressing rooms, the gymnasium is awaiting the installation of its equipment.
NCA head VVS Laxman expressed his excitement about the facility, stating, “The word ‘excellence’ is crucial for athletes competing at the highest level. The Centre of Excellence will benefit not only the future generation of cricketers but also current players.” He emphasized the versatility of the facility, dispelling the notion that cricketers only visit for rehabilitation. “Players come here to upskill and prepare for future challenges,” Laxman added.
With 45 practice wickets, world-class grounds, and a comprehensive range of facilities, the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence is poised to set a new standard in Indian cricket, creating an environment for players to thrive and excel at the international level.
