Bengaluru, 29 Sept

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday inaugurated the new National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. This world-class facility, the result of the vision of Jay Shah, the secretary of the organisation, to nurture the future of cricket, will now be called the BCCI Centre of Excellence.

Spanning over 40 acres, this facility is designed to become the epicentre for nurturing cricketing talent and advancing sports science in India. The Centre of Excellence features a total of three grounds and 86 pitches, including both indoor and outdoor areas, highlighting its capacity to provide comprehensive training facilities, as per a press release from BCCI.

At the heart of the Centre are three world-class cricket grounds. Ground A, the main ground, boasts an 85-yard boundary with 13 meticulously maintained Mumbai red soil pitches ready for play. Equipped with advanced floodlighting and state-of-the-art broadcasting facilities, it can host and telecast matches under lights. Grounds B and C serve as dedicated practice grounds with 75-yard boundaries, featuring 11 Mandya soil pitches and 9 Black Cotton soil pitches from Kalahandi, Odisha, respectively.

An innovative subsurface drainage system ensures quick recovery after rainfall, minimising disruptions and maintaining a consistent playing schedule. The grounds are designed with white picket fencing and lush green seating mounds, reminiscent of English county grounds.

A world-class indoor practice facility features eight pitches with premium turfs from the UK and Australia, alongside an 80m common run-up area. Large, toughened glass panels allow natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. Integrated cameras capture play for analytical purposes, ensuring athletes can train regardless of weather or time.

The South Pavilion, a G+2 structure spanning 45,000 sqft, includes one of the largest dressing rooms at nearly 3,000 sqft, complete with a jacuzzi, lounge, massage room, kit room, and restrooms. It will house a carefully curated Hall of Fame showcasing India's cricketing legacy. -ANI