Patna: 10 December 2024 marked a momentous day for cricket in Bihar as the state government and the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) joined hands to revolutionise the sport in the region. In a landmark move, the Bihar government officially registered the land of the iconic Moinul Haq Stadium in the name of the BCA, granting it on a 30-year lease. This development aims to transform the stadium into a world-class venue equipped with international-standard facilities.
The Bihar government demonstrated its commitment to this ambitious project by waiving the substantial land registration fee of approximately ₹37 crore. Mahendra Kumar, Director of the Sports Department, signed the land registration papers on behalf of the government, while Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, President of the BCA, represented the association. The signing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Director of Sports Sanjay Kumar, Patna District Sports Officer Om Prakash, BCA Secretary Ziaul Afreen, and GM Admin Neeraj Rathore.
Speaking on the occasion, BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari expressed gratitude to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, and the state government for their support. He announced that the foundation stone for the stadium’s redevelopment would be laid early in the new year, and construction would commence soon after. He assured that the BCA would work at full pace to complete the project within two to three years, delivering a state-of-the-art stadium for hosting international matches.
This collaboration between the Bihar government and the BCA follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 6 November 2024. The MoU ceremony was attended by prominent leaders, including Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, Urban Development Minister Nitin Naveen, and Sports Minister Surendra Mehta, alongside several legendary cricketers.
Vision for the New Moinul Haq Stadium
The revamped Moinul Haq Stadium is set to become a premier sports complex, boasting a seating capacity of 40,000 spectators, 76 corporate boxes, and 250 VIP seats. In addition to cricket facilities, the complex will feature amenities such as badminton and volleyball courts, a swimming pool, a five-star hotel, a fully equipped hostel for players, a restaurant, and a clubhouse.
This project represents a significant leap forward for cricket in Bihar, promising a world-class venue for players and fans alike and paving the way for international competitions in the state.
