Nagaland government helps to build first cricket stadium in state

By CricketCountry Staff

 

In an attempt enhance the cricketing talent from the north-eastern region, Nagaland government has built the Sovina Cricket Stadium in Dimapur, the first cricket stadium in the state.

This is the second stadium in the north-eastern region, The first cricket stadium of Northeast was built in Guwahati © Getty Images

By CricketCountry Staff

Dimapur: May 27, 2012

 

In an attempt enhance the cricketing talent from the north-eastern region, Nagaland government has built the Sovina Cricket Stadium in Dimapur, the first cricket stadium in the state.

 

The newly built stadium recently hosted a match between the Under-16 Dimapur District Team and the Sovima Youth Cricket Club

 

The Sovina Cricket Stadium is the first stadium in Nagaland and the second in the entire North Eastern region.

 

“We are happy that finally our stadium is ready. I believe that cricket is going to go a long way because now we have good facilities,” said Athasie Angami, the head coach of the Nagaland Cricket Academy

 

The stadium took nearly eight months to build and functions under the aegis of Nagaland Cricket Academy and Board of Cricket Control of India

 

“Earlier, we did not have a ground in Nagaland, so we had to go to other place like Guwahati for playing and coaching. But now we have academy here. It is a great opportunity for youngsters.” Vikas Kumar, a cricketer was quoted as saying by DNA

 

Players from different clubs and zones in Nagaland are now practicing and preparing for bigger challenges ahead at the stadium that was constructed at a cost of Rs.10.33 crores. It has six masts each 40 meters high to support floodlights.

 

A. Rehman, Secretary, Nagaland Cricket Academy said, “Now, our boys will not have to go out from Nagaland to practice. They can learn here and we will be able to better quality players from here. And hopefully more and more Naga boys will come out with flying colors in the field of cricket.”

 

The first cricket stadium of Northeast was built in Guwahati and the first international match took place in 1983 between India and the West Indies.

 

Northeast has always been a hub for sports and cricket is slowly gaining popularity.

About the Author