Raipur, May 13 -- The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President Rajeev Shukla highlighted the growing prominence of Raipur as a cricket venue, noting that the city has once again hosted Indian Premier League (IPL) matches after previously staging two seasons of the tournament.

He expressed gratitude to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise for allocating two matches in the city, calling it a matter of pride that a team featuring Virat Kohli is playing there.

Shukla also pointed to the steady rise in cricket activities in Raipur, including international fixtures and upcoming women's matches, and said the leased stadium, along with a proposed academy, would further strengthen the sport's growth.

He added that regula...