Siliguri, the hometown of Women's World Cup hero Richa Ghosh, is set to honor the 22-year-old cricketer by naming a stadium after her. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made the announcement during a press conference in Siliguri, where she was reviewing relief efforts following recent rainfall and landslides.
The "Richa Cricket Stadium" will be constructed on a 27-acre plot at Chandmani Tea Estate in Matigara, near Siliguri. The stadium aims to become a world-class cricketing hub with facilities for aspiring players throughout North Bengal. The state government will soon undertake the project.
Ghosh played a pivotal role in India's recent World Cup victory, performing as a wicketkeeper-batter. In eight matches during the tournament, she scored 235 runs at an average of 39.16, helping India secure crucial wins.
Banerjee stated that the stadium is a way to honor Ghosh, one of Bengal's shining sports talents, and encourage more young cricketers from North Bengal. She congratulated Ghosh on becoming a world champion at just 22 years old.
Manabendra Ghosh, Richa's father, expressed his joy and excitement about the announcement. He said it felt like a dream come true to see a stadium being built in his daughter's name in the place where she began her journey. He added that this honor belongs to every young girl who has dared to dream in the hills.
The decision to name a stadium after an active sportsperson is unusual in India. Typically, stadiums are named after political leaders or recently deceased figures. This move highlights Ghosh's achievements and the state's commitment to developing sports infrastructure beyond Kolkata.
Ghosh's journey began at the age of four, training with boys due to the lack of a girls' team, which helped sharpen her attacking game. The state has previously honored Ghosh with the Banga Bhushan award and a DSP post in the West Bengal Police. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) also presented her with a cash reward and a golden bat and ball signed by Sourav Ganguly and Jhulan Goswami.
The new stadium is seen as another step towards making Ghosh an example of women's sporting excellence and inspiring young athletes in the region. Authorities are expected to announce timelines and budgets for the stadium's construction soon.
