KCA Announces its first GRIHA-Certified Cricket Stadium Project in Kollam

KOLLAM:
The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) proudly announces its upcoming landmark infrastructure project — a state-of-the-art cricket stadium at Ezhukone in Kollam District. Spread across 10 acres of land owned by KCA, the site was acquired in 2015-16 with a long-term vision of developing a full-fledged cricketing facility in the region. Located approximately 60 kilometers from Trivandrum International Airport, the proposed venue is strategically positioned to serve cricketing needs across southern Kerala. The total cost of the project is ₹56 crore, with ₹21 crore allocated for the first phase.

The formal inauguration of the construction will take place on 25th May 2025 at 11:00 AM. The event will be graced by K.N. Balagopal, inister for Finance, Government of Kerala, as the Chief Guest, in the esteemed presence of J. Chinchu Rani, Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development and the event will be graced by Kodikunnil Suresh , M.P & Kovoor Kunjumon, MLA.

The first phase of the project will be completed by the end of 2026. The stadium, which will bring major changes to the sports landscape of Kollam district, is expected to become a venue for domestic cricket matches in the future.

KCA President Jayesh George announced that the facility will include a 150-meter diameter cricket ground designed to host domestic matches. The complex will also include a state-of-the-art pavilion with dressing rooms for players, a gallery in the style of an open-air amphitheater, a fully equipped office block, outdoor net practice areas, and an all-weather indoor training facility. Additionally, the venue will offer infrastructure for other sports, a modern gymnasium, and ample parking space, ensuring comprehensive amenities for athletes and visitors alike.

In alignment with KCA’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the stadium will incorporate a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system to promote water retention and conservation. The project will also preserve and protect natural streams running along the site boundary, using environmentally sensitive engineering solutions that integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape. Great care is being taken to preserve existing trees and maintain the site’s ecological balance, ensuring minimal disturbance to the serene surroundings.

KCA Secretary Vinod S. Kumar stated that the Kerala Cricket Association is committed to enhancing the state’s sports sector and ensuring sustainable development, and the stadium at Ezukone stands as a prime example of this commitment. He added that the project not only fulfills a long-standing demand in the district’s sports sector but also reinforces KCA’s dedication to environmental conservation. Notably, this will be KCA’s first GRIHA-certified (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) project — marking a milestone in the Association’s journey toward sustainable sports infrastructure.