Agartala, 5th September 2026 : With the Ranji Trophy season fast approaching, concerns are mounting over the apparent lack of preparation by the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) for one of India’s most prestigious domestic tournaments. While several state associations reportedly began structured training camps and preparations 40 to 45 days ago, Tripura’s senior cricketers are yet to receive any clear indication regarding the commencement of official preparations.
The situation is said to be no different for players in various age-group categories. In the absence of organised camps, several cricketers have reportedly been training independently, with some focusing on gym sessions while others continue individual batting and bowling practice.
Sources familiar with the developments fear that the association may once again follow a delayed selection process—first announcing a large preliminary squad and subsequently conducting a limited number of practice matches before finalising a 20- or 22-member team. Such a process could consume around 15 days, leaving the selected squad barely three weeks for proper preparation ahead of the tournament.
The issue has triggered serious questions over Tripura’s cricketing roadmap, particularly when the Ranji Trophy remains one of the most important platforms for players aspiring to progress towards national-level cricket.
Meanwhile, according to information circulating among cricketing circles, three guest players are being considered for the upcoming season—Mandeep Singh, who represented Tripura two seasons ago but missed the entire previous season, Swapnil Singh and newly recruited Bhargav Merai. Satyajit Lahiri is reportedly being considered for the coaching role.
However, allegations have also surfaced from sources within the cricketing fraternity regarding possible irregularities and financial dealings surrounding the engagement of guest players and coaching appointments. These allegations could not be independently verified, and no official response from the association was immediately available.
Tripura’s recent performance in domestic cricket has also become a matter of concern. The team, which was capable of finishing around the middle of the group standings a few seasons ago, has reportedly slipped towards the bottom of the table in recent campaigns.
Critics have blamed the present administration for what they describe as a steady decline in the state’s cricketing standards, alleging poor planning and a lack of focus on grassroots and player development. Concerns have also been raised over the association’s ongoing differences with the BCCI, with cricket observers warning that continued administrative uncertainty could adversely affect the future of the sport in the state.
As the Ranji Trophy draws closer, Tripura’s cricketers and supporters are now waiting for the association to initiate a structured and transparent preparation programme before valuable time slips away.
