Aim to accelerate cricket development across the NE: RR Chairperson in Assam
Guwahati: Cricket fever is gripping Guwahati, Assam as the Rajasthan Royals gear up for their return to the city! The franchise is set to arrive on Monday, May 13th for their much-anticipated IPL 2024 home matches at the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) stadium.
Chairperson of the franchise Ranjit Barthakur and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Joint Secretary Devajit Saikia on Saturday (May 11) said that the coming week will see the city rejoice and witness some of the best cricketing action in the world.
The Rajasthan Royals will play two matches at the ACA stadium in Guwahati. While the RR will lock horns with Punjab Kings on May 15, the team will clash with Kolkata Knight Riders on May 19. Barthakur stated that the franchise is looking forward to the support it gets in Assam.
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“We are privileged to be coming back home and playing in front of such passionate supporters in Assam. Last year was a success for us as a franchise to play here, and it is a proud moment to be bringing the IPL back to the region. We are looking forward to the support of the people who have welcomed the team with open arms. Now it’s time to enjoy the best cricket in the stadium,” Barthakur said.
Speaking about the RR’s vision for the Northeast, Barthakur said, “We have no intention of accumulating wealth by organising IPL matches in Guwahati. Our aim is the socio-economic development of Assam and Northeast as a whole through cricket. I believe that by nurturing cricket talent, we can contribute to the overall development of the region in sports, economy and rapid employment generation. By breaking the barriers of talent and resources, we are moving forward and getting there. IPL has created an inspiring environment, and as it expands, the Northeast will advance towards development.”
Barthakur expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support the fans in the region have shown for his team.
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“The IPL’s first-ever connection to the Northeast has provided a unique experience at the right time. Fans have shown overwhelming support and enthusiasm for the team. This support from fans has further bolstered our confidence. It’s a matter of pride for us as we have become stronger together. We aim to accelerate cricket development and broadcast its impact across the region,” he added.
Barthakur revealed that another focus area for the franchise in the Northeast will be their ongoing journey of empowering women. He said that the franchise’s social equity arm, the Royal Rajasthan Foundation, will be working with the Balipara Foundation to drive significant initiatives for sustainable energy usage including solar power.
“Along with the social causes, we are also looking forward to inviting the people who work behind the scenes and never get a chance to experience the IPL. We will be inviting municipal workers if the municipal administration allows and have them enjoy the games. Not just them, we will also be inviting people from all walks of life to “Halla Bol” for the RR,” he said.
On the other hand, Devajit Saikia expressed his excitement on the return of IPL to the region.
“Like everyone else in the Northeast, we are excited about the IPL matches set to be hosted by Guwahati. The BCCI’s endeavour has been to take cricket to every nook and corner of the country and special importance has been given to the Northeast and its development,” Saikia said.
Notably, the inaugural IPL champions are in contention to make it to the playoffs with another win and will be hoping to finish the league stage with some positive cricket in Guwahati.