Once the highest cricket ground in the world, the Chail cricket ground in Himachal Pradesh is now in a state of neglect, despite its unique location and potential to attract international attention.
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In the hills of Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by the lush forests of Chir Pine and giant Deodar trees, lies the village of Chail.It is located on three hills, with the palace situated on Rajgarh Hill, the Residency Snow View, formerly occupied by the British Resident, is on Pandhewa Hill, and Chail itself is situated on the third hill, Sadh Tiba.
It was once the summer capital of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, who built a new city for himself(1893) after being banned from Shimla by Lord Kitchener.This incensed the Maharaja, and he vowed to build a new summer capital for himself. So he rebuilt the place (Chail) as per his requirements. Chail is today surrounded by the forests of Chir Pine and giant Deodars trees. Among the many attractions of Chail is its cricket ground, which at an altitude of 7,500 feet above sea-level is described to be the highest cricket ground in the world. It was once a source of pride for the locals and a magnet for sports lovers from far and wide. However, today it is a shadow of its former self, neglected and forgotten by the cricket authorities and the state government.
The Lost Glory of Chail Cricket Ground
The Chail cricket ground was built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh in the early 20th century, and it was known for its unique location and picturesque setting. The Maharaja himself played friendly matches with the Britishers on this ground, and it soon became a popular venue for cricket matches and other sports events. For many years, the cricket ground merited a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records as the highest cricket ground in the world. However, today it is a forgotten and neglected place, where the cricket pitch is in shambles and the state's cricket association seems to be least worried about it.
The Curator-Groundsman's Absence and Lack of Interest from Authorities
One of the main reasons for the neglect of the Chail cricket ground is the absence of a curator and groundsman. The cricket pitch is in a sorry state, and no competitive cricket is being held here. The state's cricket association seems to lack interest in the ground, and local youth use the venue for inter-school matches and other sports events. Despite its unique location and potential to attract international attention, the Chail cricket ground is today starved of first-class matches and international cricket.
The Potential of Chail Cricket Ground for Indian Cricket
If properly developed and maintained, the Chail cricket ground has the potential to become a major attraction for Indian cricket. Its unique location and picturesque setting make it an ideal venue for international matches, and it can also promote tourism in the region. Many leading Test players still come to practice here, despite the neglect of the ground. Now it is used as the school playground by Chail Military School. During school vacations it is also used for Polo. There is a well maintained Basketball court, as well as goal posts for football.
Conclusion
The neglected cricket ground of Chail is a lost opportunity for Indian cricket. It was once the highest cricket ground in the world and a source of pride for the locals, but today it is a forgotten and neglected place. However, with proper development and maintenance, it can become a major attraction for Indian cricket and a source of pride for the country. The state government and the cricket authorities should take note of its potential and take steps to restore it to its former glory.
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