The demand for an stadium of international standards in the Kalyana Karnataka region has gained momentum with stakeholders urging the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to host major domestic and international matches in Kalaburagi.

The issue was raised during a joint press conference organised by KSCA and Maharaja Trophy franchise Gulbarga Mystics in Kalaburagi on June 16.

Gulbarga Mystics owner Dr. Syed Mohammed Ali Al Husseini said tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy, the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international matches should not be confined to Bengaluru.

“Our team represents the Raichur zone, and aims to provide opportunities for young cricketers from north Karnataka,” he said, adding that the KBN Stadium in Kalaburagi has modern infrastructure and is capable of hosting major matches.

He said the region has no shortage of talent, but the lack of high-profile tournaments reduced the number of opportunities for aspiring cricketers.

Responding to the demand, KSCA vice-president Sujith Somasundar said the association would assess the infrastructure and player security requirements at the KBN Stadium before considering it as a venue for future tournaments.

He said KSCA is keen to expand cricket infrastructure beyond Bengaluru, but would require support from the government of Karnataka and suitable quantity of land for the purpose.

Kushal Patil, coordinator for the Raichur zone, said 13 acres of land had been donated near the Kalaburagi airport for a proposed cricket facility, while an additional 25 acres from the government of Karnataka is awaited.