Bihar CM backs state's IPL team bid, citing infrastructure push

Bihar chief minister Samrat Choudhary on Friday backed the idea of having an Indian Premier League (IPL) team from the state, saying the state government is working in "mission mode" to improve cricket infrastructure and create opportunities for young players. The statement came after businessman Anil Agarwal questioned why Bihar still does not have an IPL franchise despite producing several cricketers who have played at the top level. In a post on X, Agarwal referred to players like Ishan Kishan, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Saqib Hussain, all of whom were born in Bihar. The businessman pointed out that Bihar is one of India’s most populous states and said it deserves representation in the IPL, similar to franchises such as Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders. Only four years ago, two new teams — Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants — were added to the league. Agarwal wrote in Hindi on X: "Don't you think Bihar deserves a team of its own, just like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders?" "Ishan Kishan, born in Patna, scored the fastest ODI double century in terms of balls faced. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from Samastipur became the youngest player to make an IPL debut. And today, the eyes of the entire world are on the brilliant bowling of Sakib Hussain, born into an ordinary family in Gopalganj.

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"But one thing always bothers me: why hasn't our Bihar yet earned the recognition and identity in cricket that we rightfully deserve?" he wrote. Responding to the post, Choudhary said the Bihar government shares the same vision regarding cricket development in the state. “The government is working in 'mission' mode with a clear 'vision' for Bihar's cricket 'emotion'. With your cooperation, a positive decision regarding Bihar's cricket team will definitely be taken,” Choudhary said in his X post. The Bihar government is also working on sports infrastructure projects. An international-standard cricket stadium with a seating capacity of around 40,000 is being developed in Rajgir. Renovation work at Moin-ul-Haq Stadium is also being planned to improve cricket facilities in the state.