“BCCI, along with all state associations, is taking the initiative to develop infrastructure across the country. They have asked state associations to build world-class stadiums, meeting international standards, and also to open state academies. They have asked to provide for sporty pitches, health clubs, swimming pools and lodging facilities. Also, the BCCI has asked the associations to explore possibile locations for another stadium to be built — which could also be utilised for playing school and university-level matches. The BCCI will help fund these,” Jaitely said.

Jaitely remarked that Delhi was the nursery of cricket in the country, and that it was the need of the hour to prepare pitches for pacers.

With Ferozeshah Kotla celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Jaitley informed that a mega celebration was on the cards. Apart from the seven IPL matches that would be played under floodlights, Kotla is hopeful of hosting a one-dayer against England and a Test match against Australia.

“For 75 years no one thought about improving the infrastructure of Kotla but we have done it and we have been successful,” he said.