In the annals of India’s cricketing legacy, the state of Bihar stands as an enigmatic paradox, a region steeped in cricketing history yet inexplicably marginalized when it comes to hosting international and domestic cricket matches. The abiding question that looms large is: Why does Bihar, with its fervent cricketing aficionados and a storied heritage, continue to be excluded from the hallowed echelons of cricket hosting rights?
Bihar’s affiliation with cricket traces back to its pre-independence era when it was an integral part of the united province of Bihar and Orissa. The cricketing narrative was replete with legendary figures, such as the illustrious Lala Shri Ram and Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, who hailed from this fertile sporting ground. Bihar’s contribution to the sport was undeniably substantial.
However, the bifurcation of the state in 2000 into Bihar and Jharkhand set the stage for a disconcerting hiatus in its cricketing journey. While Jharkhand, endowed with the charismatic aura of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, ascended to international prominence, Bihar found itself mired in administrative turmoil. The fractured cricketing ecosystem and a prolonged absence from domestic competitions undermined its prospects.
The reluctance of cricketing authorities to grant Bihar the privilege of hosting matches is a matter of considerable consternation. This travesty not only deprives the cricket-loving populace of Bihar the opportunity to witness live cricket but also stymies the growth of the sport within the state. The economic dividends that hosting matches bestows, from tourism to local businesses, remain unrealized in this cricketing wilderness.
One can argue that the bias against Bihar is emblematic of a broader issue in Indian cricket – the urban-centric focus that predominantly favors metropolitan centers. Bihar’s omission from the cricketing calendar perpetuates the notion that cricket is an exclusive domain reserved for big cities, thereby perpetuating regional disparities.
To rectify this historical injustice, a concerted effort is required. The reinstatement of Bihar in domestic competitions and the establishment of modern cricketing infrastructure in the state are pivotal steps. Prominent cricketing figures hailing from Bihar, such as Kirti Azad and Syed Saba Karim, have vociferously advocated for the cause, underscoring the need for systemic reform.
In summation, the continued deprivation of hosting rights for Bihar is a lamentable testament to the sport’s uneven distribution of opportunities. The time has come for cricketing authorities to rectify this historical oversight and bestow upon Bihar its rightful place in the pantheon of cricketing hosts. Only then can cricket in India truly embrace the spirit of inclusivity and equity, ensuring that the passion for the sport resonates across every corner of this diverse and cricket-loving nation.
