Bengaluru: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially inaugurated its cutting-edge National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, now rebranded as the BCCI Centre of Excellence. This landmark facility, which spans over 40 acres, represents the vision of BCCI Secretary Jay Shah to foster the next generation of Indian cricketing talent while advancing sports science.
World-Class Infrastructure
The Centre of Excellence is designed to become a hub for sports training, featuring three cricket grounds and a total of 86 pitches, both indoors and outdoors. The grounds are inspired by the aesthetics of English county cricket, with white picket fences and lush green seating mounds.
The Centre boasts 45 outdoor net pitches organized into nine clusters, featuring a variety of surfaces, including Mumbai red soil, Mandya soil, Kalahandi black cotton soil, and concrete. These are complemented by a dedicated fielding practice area and six running tracks made of natural grass and Mondo synthetic surfaces. For indoor practice, there are eight premium pitches with top-quality turf from the UK and Australia, ensuring athletes can train in any weather conditions.
Modern Amenities
The South Pavilion, a G+2 structure covering 45,000 square feet, houses a massive dressing room, complete with a jacuzzi, lounge, massage room, and a Hall of Fame celebrating India’s cricketing history. The facility also includes rooms for commentators, match referees, and press conferences, along with VIP lounges and administrative offices.
Adjacent to the pavilion, a separate building provides dining and dormitory facilities for staff and players, with provisions for future expansion.
State-of-the-Art Sports Science & Medicine Block
The Sports Science & Medicine Block spans 16,000 square feet and features a world-class gym, recovery areas with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam baths, as well as an underwater pool spa. The block also includes a physiotherapy rehab gym, a sports science lab, and a dedicated recovery area, making it one of the most advanced sports science facilities in the country. A 25×12-meter swimming pool and an 80-seater meeting room add to its versatility for athlete development.
Commitment to Indian Sports
While primarily focused on cricket, the Centre of Excellence is dedicated to supporting Indian athletes across all disciplines. The state-of-the-art Sports Science & Medicine facility will be open to top Olympians, enhancing India’s overall sporting ecosystem.
A New Chapter for Indian Sports
The BCCI Centre of Excellence is poised to revolutionize sports training in India. With its world-class infrastructure and a commitment to fostering excellence, it is set to nurture the next generation of Indian athletes and cement the nation’s position on the global sports stage.