Odisha T20 League CM Trophy 2026 Launched at Barabati Stadium
The inaugural Odisha T20 League CM Trophy 2026 was launched at the historic Barabati Stadium by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, marking a new chapter in the state’s sporting journey.
Cricket has now been added as the fifth sport under the Chief Minister’s Trophy, alongside football, kho‑kho, kabaddi, and volleyball.
The initiative aims to identify and nurture rural cricketing talent across Odisha’s 30 districts, offering young players a pathway to professional opportunities.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasised that sports are increasingly seen as career avenues, with T20 and league cricket opening doors for youth.
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina and Odisha’s own international star Debashish Mohanty have been named ambassadors of the league, inspiring the next generation.
The state government has announced ambitious infrastructure plans, including the construction of stadiums in all 314 blocks at a cost of ₹4,124 crore, a high‑tech sports complex at Gothapatna in Bhubaneswar, and a complete renovation of Barabati Stadium to elevate it into a premier national venue.
The Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) will also establish an Under‑14 cricket academy to groom budding players.
The launch event was attended by MLAs, OCA officials, sports association leaders, and dignitaries.
Suresh Raina praised Odisha’s initiative, recalling his past match at Barabati Stadium, and said the league would motivate youth to pursue cricket with passion and dedication.
