Hazaribag, Aug 28 (UNI) Hazaribag has received a major boost in the world of domestic cricket, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has awarded the city hosting rights for a Cooch Behar Trophy match for the first time.
The historic encounter between Jharkhand and Kerala will take place at the Sanjay Singh Cricket Stadium from December 8 to 11, 2025.
Saurabh Tiwari, Secretary of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), confirmed the development in an official communication.
According to JSCA, this recognition comes after the BCCI commended the association for maintaining high standards in domestic cricket tournaments across the state.
As part of the 2025–26 season, JSCA has been entrusted with hosting a total of 77 matches, with the opening match allocated to Hazaribag. The association has requested the Hazaribag District Cricket Association to ensure that the stadium is fully prepared at least 15 days in advance. Key preparations include pitch readiness, outfield maintenance, side screens, pitch covers, rollers, dressing rooms, and other essential facilities.
For Hazaribag, this represents a significant opportunity. Local youth players will gain exposure to national-level cricket, and the city will emerge on the map of Indian cricket.
Expressing his joy over this milestone, Hazaribag District Cricket Association president and local MP Manish Jaiswal said, “Years of planning and effort are coming to fruition. We remember our former secretary, the late Sanjay Singh, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for this achievement.”
Hosting a BCCI match in a city like Hazaribag was once a dream, and it is finally becoming a reality.” Secretary Bunti Tiwari added, “We have already begun preparations, and it is an honor
to host a match of this magnitude.”
The stadium had been inspected by a BCCI team on July 17, 2025, and was deemed fit to host the match.
Since assuming the presidency of the district cricket association, Manish Jaiswal has consistently worked to upgrade the facilities at Sanjay Singh Stadium. Today, the stadium stands ready to welcome the players and fans for a landmark event in Hazaribag’s cricketing history.
