The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has announced an ambitious plan to build India's largest cricket stadium in Amaravati, setting a new benchmark in cricket infrastructure.

With a proposed seating capacity of 1.25 lakh spectators, the stadium is poised to surpass the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, currently the largest in the country.

ACA president and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) revealed that the association has sought 60 acres of land from the Andhra Pradesh state government to bring this iconic project to life. The stadium will form a key part of a larger sports city, spanning 200 acres in Amaravati, aimed at transforming the city into a global sporting hub.

"This stadium will not only redefine cricket infrastructure in the country but also put Amaravati on the global sporting map," Chinni stated during a recent media interaction.

Funding and Collaboration

To finance this colossal project, the ACA plans to seek financial assistance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Additionally, funds will be raised locally to ensure the timely execution of the plan.

As part of its larger vision for sports development, the ACA intends to bid to host the 2029 National Games in Amaravati. If successful, this would be a significant milestone for Andhra Pradesh and a testament to the state's growing prominence in Indian sports.

Focus on Talent Development

In a bid to nurture local cricketing talent, the ACA has announced the establishment of three state-of-the-art cricket academies in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada, and Rayalaseema. These academies will be overseen by former Indian cricket stalwarts Mithali Raj and Robin Singh, ensuring world-class training for aspiring cricketers.

Vizag stadium to be Modernized

As part of its broader infrastructure enhancement efforts, the ACA is also modernising the Visakhapatnam Stadium. The upgrades include state-of-the-art facilities, positioning the venue as a prime host for Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.

Chinni expressed confidence in seeing at least 15 players from Andhra Pradesh make their way to the IPL within the next two years, thanks to the association's renewed focus on talent development and infrastructure improvement.

This groundbreaking stadium and the associated projects signify a major leap forward for cricket in Andhra Pradesh and India as a whole. Amaravati's transformation into a global sporting destination is now on the horizon.