Tilottama, Rupandehi: An exciting development is underway in the world of cricket as plans are set in motion to construct an international-level cricket ground in Tilottama, Rupandehi. With a private investment of 40 million Nepalese Rupees, the foundation stone for the Extratech Oval Cricket Ground in Tilottama Municipality Ward No. 17 Darakhsawa.
The process of acquiring land for the construction of the cricket field began approximately two years ago. Extratech Oval Pvt Ltd, led by its director Binod Kunwar, has already purchased 5 bigha (approximately 3.3 acres) of land and is currently in the process of acquiring more. In the last two weeks alone, about 800 truckloads of soil have been prepared for the project.
The initial plan is to build a stadium with a seating capacity of 5,000 spectators in the first year. Over the course of the next four years, the capacity will gradually increase by 5,000 spectators each year, reaching a total capacity of 25,000 spectators. The estimated cost for the completion of the Extratech Oval Cricket Ground, in the form of a stadium, is projected to be 40 crore Nepalese Rupees.
Binod Kunwar highlighted the lack of a suitable international cricket ground built by the government, particularly after the Gautam Buddha International Ground in Chitwan’s Bharatpur faced delays. Taking matters into his own hands, Kunwar initiated the construction of the cricket ground with his own investment. He assured that the necessary funds for the field’s development have already been secured.
Extratech Oval Pvt Ltd, along with its Director Binod Kunwar and Chief Operating Officer Sudiksha Gautam, are the proud owners of this stadium. The organization is renowned as an IT training institute located in Sydney, Australia. Former national cricketer Shakti Gauchan has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the Extratech Oval Cricket Ground and will also be responsible for managing the academy and training center, which will include a hostel facility. The stadium complex will feature a four-storey building and aim to train 100 individuals in the academy.
Binod Kunwar, reflecting on his journey, mentioned his struggles after studying engineering in 2014 and moving to Australia to pursue IT studies. Initially faced with challenges in finding accommodation and employment, Kunwar persevered and established his own vocational training center in 2019. Recognizing the lack of professional training opportunities for Nepalis, he aimed to bridge the gap and provide specialized training within their respective fields. Extratech has successfully trained around 1300 individuals, with 1100 of them securing employment. The positive response from trainees has led to organic word-of-mouth marketing, reducing the need for extensive promotional efforts.
Regarding the construction of the cricket stadium, Kunwar fondly recalled a defining moment when Nepal participated in the T20 World Cup in 2014, which ignited his passion for the sport. Inspired by the desire to create an environment for cricket enthusiasts, he embarked on this ambitious project.
Kunwar emphasized that Extratech’s approach differs from others, as they prioritize constructing the ground first and then expand according to the requirements. Drawing inspiration from New Zealand’s cricket grounds, where the playing area takes precedence over grand infrastructure, Extratech aims to create a natural and welcoming environment for players and spectators alike.
The opening match at the Extratech Oval Cricket Ground is scheduled for the Dashain of 2081, with plans to add the necessary infrastructure in subsequent years. Kunwar is determined to complete the project promptly, estimating a five-year timeline for its overall completion.
Kunwar concluded by emphasizing that despite being a private sector initiative, the cricket ground’s primary purpose is to benefit Nepalese players and promote the growth of cricket in the country.
Video Source: Nepal Khabar