The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially inaugurated its new ‘Centre of Excellence’ in Bengaluru, a world-class facility designed to nurture the current and future generations of cricketers. India cricket legend VVS Laxman, who was present at the unveiling on September 28, expressed his admiration, stating, “I have been to some of the best academies in the world. I have not seen this kind of facility. The beneficiaries will be not only the future generation of cricketers but also the current generation.”
A World-Class Facility with Comprehensive Facilities
Built over 40 acres with over one lakh square feet of state-of-the-art infrastructure, the Centre is the brainchild of Jay Shah, BCCI Secretary, who initiated the project 16 months ago. It features three grounds and a total of 86 pitches, catering to both training and match conditions. The main ground, Ground A, has an 85-yard boundary and 13 red soil pitches, equipped with floodlights and broadcasting facilities for televised matches. Grounds B and C serve as practice areas, with 75-yard boundaries and 20 pitches of varying soil types from Karnataka and Odisha.
“This is a dream come true for all players,” said Laxman, who has represented India in 134 Tests and 86 ODIs. “It is a very important moment for Indian cricket.”
Advanced Training and Practice Facilities
The Centre includes 45 outdoor net pitches grouped into nine clusters, featuring soil types from across India and concrete pitches for varied practice conditions. A dedicated fielding practice area and six outdoor running tracks (natural grass and Mondo synthetic surfaces) enhance training versatility. A sophisticated indoor practice facility offers eight premium turf pitches sourced from the UK and Australia.
Jay Shah spoke of the significance of the Centre, highlighting its aim to elevate Indian cricket and sports science. “This facility reflects our unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of cricketers. It is not just a hub for cricket but also for advancing sports science for athletes across disciplines,” said Shah.
Sports Science and Medicine Block
The Centre also boasts a Sports Science & Medicine (SSM) Block, which includes a 16,000 square-foot gym, physiotherapy rehab gym, and a sports science lab. Recovery amenities like a jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, underwater pool spa, and cold showers provide comprehensive support for athletes. Additional facilities include a 25×12-meter swimming pool, an 80-seater meeting room for strategy sessions, and spaces for coaches, all supported by audio-visual setups for presentations and fitness classes.
With its cutting-edge design and comprehensive facilities, the Centre of Excellence is expected to play a crucial role in preparing Indian cricketers for both domestic and international challenges, setting a new standard for sports training in India.