Historic TU Cricket Stadium Undergoes Multi-Million Dollar Modernization
The TU cricket ground in Kirtipur is experiencing a transformative upgrade that promises to revolutionize cricket infrastructure in Nepal. The TU cricket stadium, officially known as the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, is being modernized with state-of-the-art facilities including floodlights, expanded seating capacity, and international-standard amenities.
TU Cricket Ground Upgrade: Key Project Details
The ongoing development at the TU cricket ground represents Nepal’s most significant investment in sports infrastructure, with contracts totaling Rs 437.7 million for the 10,000-seating-capacity parapet and Rs 421.9 million for six floodlights.
Current Project Status:
- Parapet Construction: 80% of the first phase is complete, with 10 of 12 planned seating blocks finished
- Seating Capacity: First phase will accommodate 10,000 spectators, expanding to 25,000 in phase two
- Floodlight Installation: Six towers with 420 fixtures being imported from Europe
- Timeline: Work expedited to complete before the Nepal Premier League
Night Matches at TU Cricket Stadium: Revolutionary Floodlight System
The TU cricket ground will soon host night matches for the first time in its history. Two floodlight poles have already been installed, while installation of the remaining poles is currently underway. These floodlights, comprising 420 fixtures imported from Europe, will enable the venue to host evening fixtures and significantly increase match scheduling flexibility.
“Once completed, the upgraded facility will be ready to host the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).” – Project Officials
TU Cricket Ground Seating: Colorful 10,000-Capacity Parapet
The seats are being installed in five colours: yellow, white, grey, green and orange, creating a visually appealing mosaic across the stands. This design approach mirrors international stadiums and will create a vibrant atmosphere for spectators at the TU cricket stadium.
Seating Configuration:
- Phase 1: 10,000 spectator capacity
- Phase 2 (Planned): Expansion to 25,000 total capacity
- Remaining Work: 1,700 seats are being imported from India
Construction Contractors and Investment
The parapet construction is being undertaken by a joint venture of BKOI, KCDC and BG Construction (JV), while floodlight installation has been entrusted to the Vision Ishwari JV. Both parties signed their respective contracts in early March 2025.
TU Cricket Ground History: From 1998 to International Recognition
The TU cricket ground has served as Nepal’s premier cricket venue since 1998. The first recorded match held on the ground came in 1998 when Bangladesh played Singapore in the 1998 ACC Trophy. The venue has a rich history of hosting major international tournaments and remains Nepal’s most iconic cricket facility.
Historical Milestones:
- Established: 1998
- First International Tournament: 1998 ACC Trophy
- First First-Class Match: Nepal vs Malaysia in Intercontinental Cup
- Major Tournaments Hosted: ICC World Cricket League Division Five (2010), ICC World Cricket League Championship (2015-17), ACC Twenty20 Cup (2011, 2013)
- Domestic Events: Everest Premier League, Prime Minister One Day Cup
Post-2015 Earthquake Reconstruction
After the devastating 2015 Nepal Earthquake, the basic infrastructures of the ground were destroyed. Thus, the CAN rebuilt its infrastructures and added more facilities such as the addition of ground walls, a pavilion building, media box, view tower and VIP Seating Area.
Cricket Association of Nepal Management
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) operates the TU cricket stadium under a lease agreement with Tribhuvan University. The current lease agreement between the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and Tribhuvan University expires in April 2026, with officials recommending renewal talks be initiated.
Rs 10 Billion Master Plan: Future Development
The government has approved a master plan to construct an international-level cricket stadium within the Tribhuvan University (TU) premises in Kirtipur, with the estimated cost of the project around Rs 10 billion. This master plan has received national priority status, positioning the TU cricket ground as Nepal’s flagship sporting venue.
“The project holds national importance as it will be Nepal’s first international-standard cricket stadium, significantly promoting both sports and tourism.” – Energy Minister Kulman Ghising
Project Challenges and Penalties
The construction has faced some timeline challenges. Due to the failure to complete work on schedule, the contracting companies are now required to pay a daily penalty of 0.05% of the total project cost, amounting to over Rs. 2 lakh per day.
Originally slated to complete in 66 days by May 7, the parapet contractor has asked for two months’ additional time with the Ministry of Urban Development, saying the recent heavy rainfall delayed work.
Ministerial Oversight and Parliamentary Monitoring
Minister for Urban Development Kulman Ghising visited the under-construction cricket stadium on Thursday and directed officials to complete the remaining work on time. Additionally, federal parliamentary monitoring committees have conducted site inspections to ensure work progression.
TU Cricket Ground Location and Access
The TU cricket stadium is located in Kirtipur Municipality, just outside Kathmandu, within the Tribhuvan University campus. The venue’s proximity to Nepal’s capital makes it easily accessible for both domestic and international spectators.
Venue Details:
- Location: Kirtipur, Tribhuvan University premises
- End Names: Pavilion End, Chobhar End
- Current Capacity: Expanding from 15,000+ to 25,000
- Surface: Natural grass
Impact on Nepal Cricket Development
The modernization of the TU cricket ground comes at a crucial time for Nepali cricket. With the national team achieving ODI status and competing in major international tournaments, the upgraded TU cricket stadium will provide a world-class venue for both international and domestic fixtures.
CAN Secretary Paras Khadka reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to finishing the project and expanding similar grounds nationwide, signaling broader cricket infrastructure development across Nepal.
Nepal Premier League Venue
Once completed, the upgraded facility will be ready to host the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). The tournament is scheduled to begin on November 16, making the completion of the TU cricket ground upgrades time-critical.
Notable ODI Records at TU Cricket Stadium
The TU cricket ground has witnessed several memorable performances:
- Highest ODI Total: 310/6 by UAE vs Nepal (2023) and 310/8 by Nepal vs Oman (2023)
- Lowest ODI Total: 35 by USA vs Nepal (2020)
- Best Bowling Figures: 6/16 by Sandeep Lamichhane vs USA (2020)
Stadium Facilities and Amenities
Current and upcoming facilities at the TU cricket stadium include:
- Modern pavilion building with dressing rooms
- Dedicated media boxes and press facilities
- VIP seating areas
- View towers for broadcast coverage
- Ground boundary walls
- International-standard playing surface
- Practice facilities
Economic Impact and Tourism Potential
The upgraded TU cricket ground is expected to boost sports tourism in Nepal. With floodlight capabilities and increased capacity, the venue can host more matches, tournaments, and potentially attract international cricket series that previously bypassed Nepal due to infrastructure limitations.
Fast-Paced Construction: A Beacon of Hope
The ongoing construction of adding stands and floodlights at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur is drawing applause from all around—deservedly so. Nepalis are not used to the kind of speed with which work is being done.
This rapid construction pace has been noted as exceptional in Nepal’s infrastructure development context, offering hope for future sports facility projects.
Conclusion: TU Cricket Ground’s Bright Future
The TU cricket ground upgrades represent a watershed moment for Nepali cricket infrastructure. With floodlights enabling night matches, expanded seating for 10,000 spectators in phase one, and a comprehensive Rs 10 billion master plan for future development, the TU cricket stadium is poised to become South Asia’s premier cricket venue outside traditional cricketing powerhouses.
As work progresses toward completion before the Nepal Premier League, the TU cricket ground in Kirtipur stands as a symbol of Nepal’s growing cricket ambitions and its commitment to providing world-class sporting infrastructure.
Entities: Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), Tribhuvan University, Kulman Ghising (Minister), Paras Khadka (CAN Secretary), Nepal Premier League (NPL), Ministry of Urban Development
FAQ
What upgrades are happening at TU cricket ground?
TU cricket ground is getting floodlights for night matches, a 10,000-seat capacity parapet, and international-standard facilities. The project includes Rs 437.7 million for seating and Rs 421.9 million for six floodlight towers.
When will TU cricket stadium floodlights be completed?
The floodlight installation at TU cricket ground is targeted for completion before the Nepal Premier League starting November 16, 2025. Two poles are already installed with remaining poles under installation.
What is the seating capacity of TU cricket ground?
TU cricket stadium will have 10,000 seating capacity in phase one, expanding to 25,000 in phase two. The colorful parapet features seats in yellow, white, grey, green, and orange.
Who manages TU cricket stadium?
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) operates TU cricket ground under a lease agreement with Tribhuvan University. The current lease expires in April 2026.
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