Ramnagar, Nainital: The cricket-loving community of Kumaon witnessed a historic moment as the region hosted its first-ever Ranji Trophy match at the Kaushiki Cricket Academy Ground under the banner of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU). Organized under the aegis of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), this marks a significant milestone in the sporting journey of Uttarakhand and especially the Kumaon region.
This grand event has officially placed the Kaushiki Cricket Ground’s name in India’s cricket diary, bringing immense pride and excitement among players and fans alike. All arrangements from the pitch and facilities to security and crowd management have been made in strict compliance with BCCI guidelines.
Four-Day Battle Between Uttarakhand and Railways
The four-day Ranji Trophy match, beginning Saturday and continuing until Tuesday, features Team Uttarakhand facing off against the All India Railways team known for its strength and experienced players. The Railways squad includes prominent names like Karan Sharma, Himanshu Sangwan, Upendra Yadav, and J. Suchith, all of whom have played at the national level and represented IPL franchises such as Mumbai Indians.
On the other side, the Uttarakhand team brings together young, talented players from different districts of the state, showcasing the growing cricketing potential of the region. Local fans have filled the stands with enthusiasm, cheering for their home team and celebrating the historic occasion.
A Golden Chapter in Uttarakhand’s Cricket Journey
Expressing his delight, Deepak Mehra, President of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand, described the event as a “golden chapter in the state’s cricket history.” He emphasized that hosting a Ranji Trophy match in Ramnagar not only puts Kumaon on the national cricket map but also opens new doors of opportunity for local players to prove their mettle at a national level.
Mehra further shared that all arrangements including the pitch, player amenities, and safety protocols were prepared under the close supervision of BCCI’s technical team. The successful organization of the event reflects the growing infrastructure and administrative capabilities of the state’s cricket association.
Boost to Local Economy and Sports Tourism
The Ranji Trophy event is expected to bring multiple benefits beyond sports. As the gateway to Corbett Tiger Reserve, Ramnagar’s hosting of this prestigious match is seen as a catalyst for sports tourism and local economic growth. With visiting players, officials, and spectators arriving from different parts of India, the event has stimulated business for local hotels, restaurants, and transport services.
Local residents and sports enthusiasts believe that this initiative will inspire youth participation in cricket and help nurture a vibrant sports culture in the Kumaon region. The successful hosting of this match is being seen as a stepping stone for more national-level sporting events in the future.
