GUWAHATI, Nov 6 - Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR) is likely to host at least two of their home matches at the ACA Stadium in Barsapara here in the coming season.
Addressing the media in a press conference here today, Manoj Badale, the owner of Rajasthan Royals revealed that RR will host at least two matches in Guwahati and is waiting for the IPL and IMG approval. �We hope we will get the approval soon and will be able to host two matches at least in this premier city of the Northeastern region of the country,� Badale said.
�In the last season also we were planning to host our matches in this beautiful stadium but could not materialise due to some technical reasons,� said the RR owner. � Kolkata Knight Riders were also interested in holding their few matches here in the last IPL season but finally they backed out,� he added.
Ranjit Barthakur, executive chairman of RR, who is from Jorhat, revealed that the franchise is going to open an academy of Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati in collaboration with the Assam Cricket Association.
Jake Lush McCrum, chief operating officer of RR said, �To operate an academy � high quality coaches and infrastructure is needed. I hope, for this, Assam Cricket Association will be able to provide the required support.��
Asked on Riyan Parag, Badale said the Assam youngster�s contract will be extended this season as his performance in the last season was satisfactory. Further he added that their prime target is to introduce young talent so they are focusing on young players of the country.
