Guwahati, June 21 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said that the newly launched Assam Premier League (APL) would serve as a major platform for emerging cricketers from the state to showcase their talent and open pathways to higher levels of the game, including the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the national team.

Launching the logo of the Assam Premier League, along with the logos of participating franchises and the league trophy at the ACA Stadium complex in Barsapara here, CM Sarma described the tournament as a significant milestone in Assam’s sporting journey and a major step towards strengthening the state’s cricketing ecosystem.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister said that organising a state-level franchise-based tournament on the lines of the IPL was a challenging task and congratulated the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) for successfully taking the initiative.

He also thanked franchise owners for their support in turning the league into a reality. Sarma said the tournament would provide talented young cricketers from different parts of Assam with an opportunity to perform before a wider audience and gain recognition for their abilities.

“The Assam Premier League will create a platform for emerging players to demonstrate their skills. Many talented cricketers remain undiscovered due to a lack of exposure, and this league will help identify and nurture such talent,” he said.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that standout performers in the tournament could eventually earn opportunities in the IPL and even represent India at the international level.

Highlighting the state government’s efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure, Chief Minister Sarma said that while Assam has witnessed rapid development of stadiums and training facilities in recent years, equal emphasis must be placed on nurturing sporting talent.

He noted that the success of the league could usher in a new era for cricket in Assam and contribute significantly to the development of the sport across the state.

The inaugural edition of the APL will feature eight franchise teams — Guwahati Royals, Jorhat Stallions, Tezpur Titans, Dibrugarh Warriors, Nagaon Rangers, Barpeta Braves, Charaideo Sunrisers and Barak Legends.

According to organisers, 160 players have been selected from a pool of 400 registered cricketers for the tournament. Matches will be broadcast on Star Sports and streamed on JioHotstar.

–IANS

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