Cuttack: In order to host international matches and provide latest facilities, the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) has decided to renovate the Barabati Stadium at Cuttack.
Speaking to media persons in Cuttack on Sunday, OCA secretary Sanjay Behera said the decision was taken at its general body meeting.
As per the decision, the OCA will form a committee to prepare the detailed project report on renovation of the stadium and submit it to the state government and Odisha Olympic Association in January, 2024. After the proposals of the DPR are approved, the OCA and OOA will take up the renovation work, said Behera.
He said since the stadium was built in 1950, its galleries and other structures have become weak over the years, posing threat to the spectators. Besides, compared to the cricket stadiums in other states, Barabati’s speactator strength and facilities need to be upgraded.
“We plan to prepare the DPR on a cricket stadium that will be at par with the stadiums of other states so that we can compete with other associations in bidding for hosting international matches. As per our plan, either a new stadium of international stadium will be built in a new place or Barabati will be totally renovated,” Behera added.
He further said since the lease of Barabati Stadium land under OCA possession has expired, the Association will claim for renewal of the agreement with OOA.
It was also decided at the general body meeting that the OCA will start a talent hunt from grassroots level. For this, it will conduct inter-school, club and college tournaments and select the talented players who will be trained to excel at national and international level matches, the OCA secretary said.
