The Assam Cricket Association has taken a major step towards strengthening sports infrastructure by inaugurating a state-of-the-art cricket ground and pavilion at Satra Baradi, Barpeta, establishing the ACA Cricket Academy – Lower Assam Zone. 

• The initiative aims to support both grassroots and high-performance cricket, with a clear focus on talent identification and long-term player development.

What has been inaugurated?

• A modern cricket ground and pavilion equipped with:
  • Five centre pitches
  • Ten net practice pitches
  • Dining and support facilities
  • Match officials’ areas
• The facility is designed to host domestic-level matches and structured coaching programmes.
• A players’ hostel has been proposed, with its foundation stone laid, to provide residential support to emerging cricketers from the region.

Significance 

• The academy will function as a satellite venue for the Lower Assam Zone, while Umrangso will serve as the satellite academy for the Southern Assam Zone.
• Expanding quality sports infrastructure beyond major urban centres ensures inclusive access for rural and district-level talent.
• Structured coaching, residential facilities, and regular exposure are critical for building a strong domestic cricket pipeline.

One-line wrap

The new cricket academy at Barpeta marks a decisive push towards decentralised sports infrastructure and grassroots talent development in Assam.

Exam Hook – 

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. The newly inaugurated ACA Cricket Academy at Barpeta is designed only for hosting international matches.
2. The facility includes multiple practice pitches and plans for a residential hostel for players.
3. The initiative reflects a strategy to expand cricket infrastructure beyond major urban centres in Assam.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Answer: 2 and 3

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