Formal Inauguration of Cricket Arena Academy Held in Budhanilkantha

The ‘Cricket Arena Academy’ for cricket and chess training was formally inaugurated in Ward 8 of Budhanilkantha Municipality, Kathmandu. The academy was inaugurated by Mayor Mitharam Adhikari. According to director Rupak Aryal, the academy aims to produce new players from the grassroots level. Former national cricketer Pradeep Gurung will provide training, and currently, 10 players are practicing at the academy.

Located in Omanagar community of Lower Bhangal, Ward 8 of Budhanilkantha Municipality, this academy spans approximately 3.5 ropani of land. It features two indoor cricket nets and an open cricket ground. A standard pitch has also been constructed, and according to director Aryal, the facility is designed to accommodate teams with eight players each.

Highlighting the growing interest in cricket, Aryal explained that the academy was established to develop new players at the grassroots level. “We have launched this academy to provide effective training in cricket and chess aimed at both sports skills and mental development of children,” he stated. Currently, 10 players are undergoing training, with plans to expand to 40 to 50 trainees in the future.

Admissions are open, with training sessions available from three to six days a week. Registered players will be provided with cricket bats and T-shirts. Former national cricketer Pradeep Gurung, who has competed in national-level tournaments and previously played for the Baluwatar Cricket Club, will lead the training at the academy. Speaking at the inauguration, Mayor Adhikari expressed happiness and pride over the launch of Cricket Arena, expressing confidence that it will nurture future national-level players.