Sikkim Cricket Ground Shines Bright with Inaugural Floodlights

Pratiksha Ghosh 

Mining, Sikkim ,May 19 2025: In a landmark moment for Sikkim’s sporting landscape, the Sikkim Cricket Ground in Mining has been equipped with high-tech LED floodlights, making it the first venue in the state capable of hosting day-night matches and live high-definition broadcasts. 

The lighting system was officially unveiled on the evening of May 18 by Chief Minister of Sikkim Mr  Prem Singh Tamang.

The Rs 12.2 crore project, entirely financed by the Government of Sikkim and implemented by the Sikkim Cricket Association (SICA), began in December 2024 and reached completion by April 18. The advanced system includes four 44-meter-high masts, each fitted with 64 powerful LED fixtures, totaling 256 lights. Each unit delivers 1.2 kilowatts of power, producing an impressive 2800 lux at the pitch — well beyond the standard needed for televised matches.

The inaugural ceremony drew a large gathering, including Justice Biswanath Somadder, Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court, various other Cabinet Ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Secretary, and other top government officials.

 SICA President Tika Subba expressed heartfelt gratitude to the state government and the BCCI for their support. He says “ Thanks to the government, with the help of the government as well as the BCCI, today we are able to install this historic floodlight”.

He further addressed how inadequate lighting had long been a barrier to scheduling and quality gameplay, and how this installation marks a transformative chapter for cricket in the state.

To celebrate the occasion, a friendly T20 match was played between the SICA President XI and the Chief Secretary XI. The Chief Secretary XI batted first, scoring 121 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs. The President’s team chased down the target in 19.4 overs, securing a five-wicket win.

The new LED lighting system adheres to international standards and comes with a five-year warranty, promising durability and minimal maintenance.

In his remarks, Chief Minister Tamang also hinted at a possible upcoming visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We’ve received confirmation regarding the PM's visit, and several meetings have been held. A tentative date has been set for May 29, though it is yet to be officially finalized,” he stated.

This floodlight installation represents a significant leap forward for cricket in Sikkim, opening new possibilities for professional matches, broader visibility, and enhanced player experience.