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BCCI expands cricket footprint with six indoor academies in Northeast: Why this initiative could redefine India’s talent pipeline

BCCI launches six indoor academies in Northeast to boost grassroots cricket, ensure year-round training, and expand talent development pathways.

By Aritra Chatterjee

Apr 28, 2026 19:28 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated six indoor cricket academies across India’s Northeast, a major step by the Board of Control for Cricket in India to strengthen grassroots infrastructure in the region. Across Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland, these facilities provide professional, year-round training and help close long-standing developmental gaps.

Modern infrastructure to overcome regional challenges

The academies are equipped with indoor practice pitches, fitness centres, and high-performance training systems, enabling players to train in controlled environments.

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In regions like the Northeast, where extended monsoons frequently disrupt outdoor practice, these indoor setups ensure uninterrupted preparation. Facilities such as the one at Luwangpokpa Cricket Stadium in Manipur include multiple practice strips, recovery zones, and administrative support, bringing elite-level training standards closer to local players.

Why this move is a game-changer for Indian cricket

This initiative addresses a critical infrastructure imbalance, giving Northeast players access to quality training without needing to relocate to traditional cricket hubs. It strengthens the talent pipeline by creating structured development pathways and improving scouting opportunities.

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At the same time, it expands cricket’s reach into underrepresented regions, making the sport more inclusive. Over time, these academies are expected to strengthen the sporting ecosystem by attracting coaching programs, competitions, and investment, marking a strategic shift toward a more balanced, pan-India model of cricket development.

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