From Our Correspondent
Mangalagiri: Actor Ram Charan on Thursday inaugurated the fifth edition of the Andhra Premier League (APL) at the newly renovated ACA International Cricket Stadium in Mangalagiri, marking a major milestone in Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure and position the state as a destination for domestic cricket.
The inauguration also marked the formal reopening of the Mangalagiri stadium, which has undergone an extensive facelift after remaining underutilised for nearly seven years due to stalled construction and infrastructure deficiencies. The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), with support from the state government, has modernised the facility with new floodlights, upgraded spectator galleries, enhanced player amenities, media infrastructure and improved broadcast facilities, transforming it into a venue capable of hosting top domestic tournaments and international fixtures.
The ACA International Cricket Stadium has a seating capacity of around 34,000 and is expected to emerge as one of Andhra Pradesh’s premier cricket venues. The revamped stadium will host the semi-finals and final of this year’s Andhra Premier League, reflecting ACA’s strategy of making Mangalagiri the league’s long-term headquarters.
Launched in 2022, the Andhra Premier League is the state’s flagship franchise-based T20 tournament organised by the Andhra Cricket Association. Modelled on the Indian Premier League, the competition aims to identify and nurture cricketing talent from across Andhra Pradesh while providing young players with a professional platform. The league has expanded steadily and now features seven franchise teams representing different regions of the state.
Unlike previous editions, which were largely confined to Visakhapatnam, the 2026 tournament is being played across three venues—Visakhapatnam, Kadapa and Mangalagiri—bringing the competition closer to cricket fans across the state. The expansion is also expected to boost local tourism, hospitality and economic activity in the host cities.
The ACA has positioned the league as more than a sporting event. Besides cricket, this year’s tournament will feature cultural performances showcasing Andhra Pradesh’s traditional art forms, providing additional opportunities for local artists while promoting the state’s cultural heritage.
Officials said the modernisation of the Mangalagiri stadium is part of a broader plan to develop Andhra Pradesh into a major cricketing hub. In addition to upgrading stadiums in Mangalagiri and Kadapa, the ACA is also investing in cricket infrastructure in other parts of the state and plans to establish a Centre of Excellence in Vijayawada to strengthen player development.
With the renovated stadium now operational and the Andhra Premier League expanding its footprint, the state hopes to create a stronger sporting ecosystem while attracting national sporting events and encouraging greater private investment in sports infrastructure.