Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has endorsed the push for an Indian Premier League franchise from the state, saying the government is operating in “mission mode” to upgrade cricket infrastructure and open pathways for talented youngsters. His remarks came after businessman Anil Agarwal publicly questioned why Bihar still does not have an IPL team, despite producing players who have gone on to represent India and compete at the highest level of the sport.
A question over Bihar’s IPL absence
Agarwal’s point was raised in a post on X, where he highlighted Bihar-born cricketers who have made their mark in modern cricket. He cited Ishan Kishan, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Saqib Hussain—each of them said to have been born in Bihar—as evidence that the state has the talent base to deserve a franchise of its own.
In the same post, Agarwal argued that Bihar’s population and cricketing output make it deserving of representation in the IPL, drawing a comparison with established franchises such as Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders. He also referenced the league’s expansion a few years ago, noting that Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants were introduced to the competition four years earlier.
Bihar talent highlighted in the debate
To underline his argument, Agarwal pointed to specific milestones achieved by Bihar-born players, linking their success to the case for an IPL identity for the state.
- Ishan Kishan, born in Patna, is credited with scoring the fastest ODI double century based on balls faced.
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from Samastipur is described as having become the youngest player to make an IPL debut.
- Saqib Hussain is noted for his standout bowling, with Agarwal mentioning that he comes from an ordinary family in Gopalganj and that his performances are drawing attention beyond India.
Agarwal concluded his post by saying that one concern has persisted for him: why Bihar has not yet received the recognition and cricketing identity it believes it deserves.
Choudhary responds with a “mission” approach
Reacting to Agarwal’s message, Choudhary said the Bihar government shares the same outlook on developing the sport within the state. In his response on X, he stated that the government is working in “mission mode” and has a “clear vision” tied to Bihar’s cricket “emotion.”
Choudhary added that with cooperation from others, a positive decision regarding a Bihar cricket team will be taken.
Infrastructure projects in Rajgir and beyond
The chief minister’s endorsement of a franchise narrative is also tied to ongoing work on facilities. Bihar’s government is reportedly advancing sports infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the local cricket ecosystem.
- An international-standard cricket stadium is being developed in Rajgir, with an estimated seating capacity of around 40,000.
- Plans are underway to renovate Moin-ul-Haq Stadium to improve cricket facilities across the state.
With the IPL franchise debate gaining momentum alongside these infrastructure efforts, Bihar’s push for a stronger cricket pipeline appears set to continue—centered on both development on the ground and opportunities for emerging players.
