The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled its state-of-the-art National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, now known as the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE). This world-class facility spans over 40 acres and boasts an array of amenities designed to revolutionize sports training and development in India.
The BCCI CoE features three world-class grounds with 86 pitches, including indoor and outdoor areas. Ground A, the main ground, has an 85-yard boundary and 13 Mumbai red soil pitches, while Grounds B and C serve as dedicated practice grounds with 75-yard boundaries and a variety of soil types. An innovative subsurface drainage system ensures quick recovery after rainfall, minimizing disruptions.
The outdoor practice facility includes 45 net pitches organized into nine clusters, providing a range of surfaces for practice. Adjacent to the nets is a dedicated fielding practice area and six outdoor running tracks with natural grass and Mondo synthetic surfaces.
The indoor practice facility features eight pitches with premium turfs from the UK and Australia, alongside an 80-meter common run-up area. Large, toughened glass panels allow for natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. Integrated cameras capture play for analytical purposes, enabling athletes to train regardless of weather or time.
The South Pavilion houses one of the largest dressing rooms at nearly 3,000 square feet, complete with a jacuzzi, lounge, massage room, kit room, and restrooms. The Sports Science & Medicine (SSM) Block encompasses a 16,000 square-foot gym with best-in-class equipment, a physiotherapy rehab gym, and a sports science and medicine lab with the latest technology.
The SSM facility also includes a recovery area with jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, underwater pool spa, and cold shower area. An 80-seater meeting room, coaches’ area, and a 25×12-meter swimming pool are also part of this facility. Dedicated audio-visual and projector facilities support training sessions, presentations, and fitness classes.
The state-of-the-art Sports Science & Medicine facility will be open to leading Indian Olympians, contributing to the overall growth of the Indian sports ecosystem. The facility will house a carefully curated Hall of Fame showcasing India’s cricketing legacy.
Additional features include commentator and match referee rooms with cutting-edge broadcasting facilities, a spacious press conference area, VIP lounge and dining area, and administrative offices. The Dining and Dormitory block offers food and lodging for staff, including male and female dormitories with a provision for future expansion.
The BCCI CoE is the brainchild of Secretary Jay Shah and aims to revolutionize sports training and development in India. Its world-class facilities and commitment to fostering the next generation of athletes will elevate the country’s status in the global sports arena.
