Raipur's Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, the third-largest cricket venue in India by seating capacity, is poised for a significant transformation that could finally bring Test cricket to Chhattisgarh. The state government has leased the stadium to the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh (CSCS) for 30 years, marking a pivotal moment in the stadium's history.
Historic Handover and Ambitious Plans
In a crucial cabinet decision on Friday, November 16, 2025, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai officially transferred management rights of the New Raipur stadium to the CSCS, a private organization recognized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This strategic move aims to revitalize the underutilized facility that has struggled to generate revenue despite substantial government investment in maintenance over the years.
CSCS director Baldeo Singh Bhatia outlined their vision: "We will make the ground hi-tech and upgrade it in line with BCCI norms. Our plans include constructing a gym, swimming pool, and improved seating arrangements for spectators."
Preparing for Test Cricket
The stadium's new management has already begun concrete steps toward achieving Test match hosting capabilities. CSCS director Vijay Shah revealed specialized preparations: "We have sourced red soil from Maharashtra to create spin-friendly wickets. We already have pitches that favor pacers. Our comprehensive renovation plan will ensure the ground achieves a better BCCI ranking and gets selected for Test matches."
Since its construction in 2008, the stadium has hosted limited international cricket—six IPL matches, one ODI, and one international T20—in addition to the Chhattisgarh Premier League. The lack of Test cricket has been particularly notable given the stadium's impressive capacity.
Economic and Sporting Impact
The financial arrangement includes CSCS paying Rs 1.5 crore annually to the government with incremental increases every three years. Additional revenue sharing includes Rs 20 lakh for international matches and Rs 30 lakh for IPL games, with these amounts also subject to triennial increases.
Beyond financial benefits, the state government anticipates significant broader impacts. The partnership is expected to enhance Chhattisgarh's national identity, boost sports tourism, and establish Raipur as a prominent cricketing destination. The CSCS has committed to regularly organizing tournaments, trials, training camps, and major domestic fixtures at the venue.
This 30-year lease represents a watershed moment for cricket infrastructure in central India, potentially transforming a underutilized asset into a world-class cricketing hub capable of hosting the sport's most traditional format.
