Ranchi: The much-awaited inaugural edition of the Jharkhand T20 League will get underway on June 10 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, with Chota Nagpur Royals taking on Ranchi Titans in the opening match of the tournament.
Led by Virat Singh, Chota Nagpur Royals will face Rajandeep Singh’s Ranchi Titans in what promises to be an exciting start to the competition.
A major attraction of the opening day will be the grand inaugural ceremony, which will be attended by former India captain and Jharkhand’s most celebrated cricketing icon, Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Dhoni’s presence is expected to add further excitement to the launch of the state’s premier T20 competition.
The second fixture of the day will feature Koylanchal Super Kings against Jamshedpur Steelers, captained by Utkarsh Singh and Kumar Deobrat respectively.
Organised by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association, the tournament will feature 27 matches, including two semi-finals and the final, all scheduled to be played at the JSCA International Stadium Complex.
The six participating teams in the inaugural season are:
- Chota Nagpur Royals
- Ranchi Titans
- Jamshedpur Steelers
- Koylanchal Super Kings
- Dhanbad Diamonds
- Santhal Strikers
JSCA President Ajay Nath Shah Deo said the league represents a landmark moment for cricket in Jharkhand and will provide a professional platform for talented players from across the state.
Vice President Sanjay Pandey expressed confidence that the inaugural edition would set high standards for future seasons, citing the enthusiastic response from players, franchises and fans.
JSCA Honorary Secretary Saurabh Tiwary noted that the league would offer young cricketers a valuable opportunity to showcase their talent alongside experienced players, while Joint Secretary Shahbaz Nadeem said fans can look forward to two weeks of competitive and entertaining cricket.
Several prominent Jharkhand cricketers, including Ishan Kishan, Robin Minz, Kumar Kushagra, Anukul Roy, Sushant Mishra, Utkarsh Singh, and Virat Singh are expected to feature in the competition.
The Jharkhand T20 League aims to create a strong pathway for emerging cricketers, helping them gain exposure and advance to higher levels of the game at the state, national and international stages.
WIth inputs from IANS