The Sikkim Cricket Ground in mining marked a major milestone in the history of the state’s game, with the establishment of state-of-the-art high-masters-led floods, officially inaugurated by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on the evening of 18 May. This enables the development site to host day and night matches and broadcasting the high-language live for the first time in Sikkim. The project was fully funded by the Sikkim government of Rs 12.2 crore, and was executed by the Sikkim Cricket Association (SICA).
The work began in December 2024 and was completed on 18 April. The lighting has four 44-meters high masts, each equipped with 64 high-power LED floodlights, with a total of 256 lights. Each light has a capacity of 1.2 kW, and the system provides an impressive 2800 lux lights on the pitch above the standard required for television cricket.
Justice Biswanath Somaddar, Chief Justice of High Court of Sikkim, cabinet ministers, MLAs, chief secretaries, chief administrators-cum-cabinet secretary and senior department officials, were present at the grand opening.
SICA President Tika Subba thanked both the State Government and BCCI (Control Board for Cricket in India) for making this dream a reality.
“Thanks to the government, with the help of BCCI along with the government, today we are able to install this historic floodlight,” he said.
Subba also pointed out the issue of poor lighting on the ground for a long time, which hindered the match scheduling and overall gameplay.
To convince the occasion, a friendly match was held between SICA President XI and Chief Secretary XI. Batting first, Chief Secretary Xi posted 121/9 in 20 overs allotted. In response, SICA president XI chased the target in 19.4 overs, winning the game with five wickets in the game.
LED floodlights manufactured to meet international standards come up with a five -year manufacturer’s warranty and promise less maintenance, ensuring that Sikkim takes a huge step forward in cricket infrastructure and visibility.
Chief Minister Tamang also confirmed that preparations were underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s possible visit.
“The Sikkim government has gained confirmation about PM Modi’s visit. Many meetings have been held … May 29 is a temporary date, although it has not yet been confirmed by 100%,” Tamang said.
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