Rajgir International Cricket Stadium Makes History as Bihar Hosts Its First-Ever Ranji Trophy Match

The newly developed Rajgir International Cricket Stadium has marked a major milestone in Bihar's cricket history by hosting its first-ever Ranji Trophy match. The historic fixture between Bihar and Uttar Pradesh began on October 11, 2026, bringing first-class cricket to the famous city of Rajgir in Nalanda district.

The match marked an important step towards establishing Bihar as a growing destination for domestic and international cricket.

Bihar vs Uttar Pradesh Opens a New Chapter

The opening Ranji Trophy encounter featured Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in the 2026–27 domestic season. The match attracted attention as several prominent players, including Indian international batter Rinku Singh, were part of the Uttar Pradesh squad.

Bihar captain Sakibul Gani won the toss and elected to bowl first. The match was inaugurated in the presence of local representatives and Bihar Cricket Association officials.

The four-day fixture, scheduled from October 11 to 14, represented the beginning of a new chapter for cricket in the state.

Spectators Await Access to the New Stadium

Despite the historic occasion, local cricket fans could not watch the opening match from inside the stadium. Entry was restricted because finishing work on the spectator stands and other sections of the facility was still underway.

Officials prioritised the safety of players and match operations while the remaining construction work continued.

A Major Boost to Bihar's Cricket Infrastructure

The Rajgir International Cricket Stadium is part of a major sports infrastructure development project in Bihar. The wider sports complex is spread across approximately 90 acres and is designed to provide modern facilities for athletes and cricket players.

The stadium is planned to accommodate approximately 40,000 to 45,000 spectators and includes several modern facilities, such as:

• International-standard cricket pitches
• Modern floodlighting arrangements
• Electronic scoreboard
• Advanced drainage system
• Modern dressing rooms
• Media and VIP facilities
• Practice facilities for cricketers

These facilities are expected to make Rajgir an important venue for future domestic and potentially international cricket events.

Rajgir Aims to Become a New Cricket Destination

The development of the stadium is expected to provide new opportunities for young cricketers from Bihar. Local players will have access to better sporting infrastructure and more opportunities to participate in high-level competitions.

The venue could also contribute to sports tourism, local employment and the overall development of the region.

With its first Ranji Trophy match now underway, Rajgir International Cricket Stadium has taken an important step towards becoming a recognised cricket destination in India.

The cricketing community will now be looking forward to seeing bigger domestic tournaments and international cricket events hosted at this ambitious sporting facility.

Key Details:

• Stadium: Rajgir International Cricket Stadium
• Location: Rajgir, Nalanda, Bihar
• Historic First Match: Bihar vs Uttar Pradesh
• Tournament: Ranji Trophy 2026–27
• Match Dates: October 11–14, 2026
• Capacity: Approximately 40,000–45,000 spectators
• Significance: First-ever Ranji Trophy match at the venue