Gorakhpur to get a new stadium [Source: @GKPIndex/X.com]Gorakhpur is set to get its own international cricket stadium, bringing big sporting action closer to eastern Uttar Pradesh. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has signed an MoU with the Uttar Pradesh government to provide Rs 60 crore for the project. The agreement was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow. The new stadium is expected to boost sports culture in the region and create fresh opportunities for young cricketers aiming to play at higher levels. Also Read - CSK suffer huge setback as injury sidelines Prashant Veer from cricket ahead of IPL 2026Eastern UP to get A cricket stadiumThe seating capacity of the proposed international cricket stadium in Gorakhpur will be 30,000 spectators. It will be built according to international standards, making it suitable for hosting major domestic and international matches. The stadium will have international-level practice grounds, night lighting, international-level dressing rooms, and a media center.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that the stadium will not only be a sports facility but also a platform for the youth of eastern Uttar Pradesh to display their talent.He said that such projects help in promoting sports tourism and investment in the region. With better infrastructure, local players will not have to travel far to get exposure or quality training facilities. The project is expected to be completed by December 2027. The Chief Minister also thanked IOCL for supporting the project under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative and said this kind of public-private partnership is important for the state’s overall development.Growing sports infrastructure across the stateThe Gorakhpur stadium is part of a larger plan to improve sports infrastructure across Uttar Pradesh. An international cricket stadium is already under construction in Varanasi and is expected to be ready by June 2026. Budget provisions have also been made for the Gorakhpur project in the current financial year.The state government has also announced plans to establish sports colleges in every division. In addition, the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut is progressing quickly. IOCL Chairman Arvinder Sahni described the MoU as a proud moment for the company. He assured the government that the Indian Oil Group remains committed to supporting the development of Uttar Pradesh. With such initiatives, the state aims to build a solid foundation for sports and unlock new possibilities for future stars.India to compete in the Super 8 stage nextMeanwhile, India are set to enter the Super 8 phase of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with their heads held high after winning Group A. Their next moves will be to play three key matches. India are set to face South Africa in Ahmedabad on February 22 at 7:00 PM IST.They will next play Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26, followed by a high-profile match against the West Indies in Kolkata on March 1. With only two semi-final spots available from the group, every game will be decisive as India aim to defend their T20 World Cup title.Also Read- RCB's Solution For Yash Dayal? IPL Teams Keen On Blessing Muzarabani For IPL 2026
