NCA Honorary General Secretary, Anilo Khing (Middle) with an IPL representative (Left) displaying the team jersey up for grabs at the IPL Fan Park scheduled on April 5 and 6. (Morung Photo)
Promises electrifying cricket vibe
Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 4
Cricket enthusiasts in Nagaland are in for a treat as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is bringing the first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) Fan Park to the state. The announcement was made, on April 4, by Anilo Khing, Honorary General Secretary of the Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA), at a press conference held at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima, Chümoukedima.
The IPL Fan Park will be set up at the Agri Expo, 4th Mile, Chümoukedima and will be open to the public on April 5 and 6. According to Khing, it is historic for cricket in Nagaland, as it joins the ranks of 23 states and 50 centres across the country chosen to host these fan-centric events.
“For the first time, on the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League, the fifth richest sporting league in the world, Nagaland has been allotted a fan park this year,” Khing declared. “I would like to thank the BCCI and the IPL management for the trust and confidence shown in the Nagaland Cricket Association by sanctioning this fan park.”
The IPL Fan Park concept took shape and began in 2015 with just 15 centers. “Today, we are very lucky to be amongst the 50 centers in the country,” he added.
Fans can expect an “electrifying environment” at the Agri Expo, with a massive 32 x 18 feet giant screen telecasting live matches, supported by two additional 16 x 8 feet LED screens. The event will not only showcase the live action on the field but will also feature a host of interactive cricket-themed games and activities.
The NCA General Secretary also spoke about promoting the game of Cricket in Nagaland. “Cricket in the country as we all know is not only a sport but it’s an identity, some call it a religion. In this part of the country, where football is more followed after, I am sure with this kind of facilities, with this kind of platform like the fan park, this will go a long way in fostering and promoting cricket.”
To add to the excitement, lucky draws will be held after every innings break, giving spectators a chance to win signed team jerseys from the teams playing on the said dates. Other engaging games include a 360 booth, the perfect shot, falling bats, fan super chase, and a VR cricket game called “Hit it Like a Pro”.
Gates will open at 2:30 pm on April 5 and will remain open until 11:30 PM, with music and loudspeakers switched off after 10:00 pm in accordance with the Supreme Court directives. On April 6, the gates will open at 6:30 pm.
Entry to the IPL Fan Park will be free, and fans can look forward to enjoying music, merchandise stalls, food, beverages, and activations by official IPL sponsors.
“With every breathtaking moment captured on the giant screens, each venue will broadcast the LIVE action giving the stadium-like feel to the fans. None of the fans could miss it as the entry is absolutely free and the fun and excitement will be doubled up with music, merchandise, food stalls and beverages,” Khing concluded.
