Rajshahi Bureau

Land Minister Md. Mizanur Rahman Minu announced today that comprehensive plans are being drawn up to host a major international-standard cricket tournament in Rajshahi before the arrival of the upcoming winter season. The initiative aims to elevate the sporting landscape of the region and enrich Bangladesh's cricket heritage by organizing a high-profile competition modeled after global World Cup tournaments at the historic Rajshahi Railway Ground.

The minister made the remarks as the chief guest during the official inauguration ceremony of the Dr. A.B.M. Mizanur Rahman Memorial Cricket Tournament held at the Rajshahi Railway Ground on Saturday morning.

Paying rich tribute to the profound contributions of the late Dr. A.B.M. Mizanur Rahman, the Land Minister recalled that the eminent physician and social worker tragically lost his life while providing selfless medical services to the public during the highly dangerous and critical phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. To honor the legacy of the distinguished humanitarian, the minister pledged to extend all forms of financial and logistical assistance to ensure the continuous growth and long-term success of the memorial tournament in the coming years.

Addressing the youth and the participating athletes, the minister urged the younger generation to emulate the high moral ideals and dedication of Dr. Mizan, inspiring them to develop into conscientious citizens and actively dedicate themselves to the service of the nation.

Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu further emphasized the urgent need to overhaul the existing, underdeveloped communication and transport infrastructure surrounding the Rajshahi Railway Ground. He revealed plans to hold formal coordination meetings with Bangladesh Railway authorities to construct several wide access roads leading to the venue. Additionally, the ministry aims to fully renovate and modernize the field, making it entirely suitable and structurally optimized for top-tier competitive sports.

The minister concluded by expressing his firm resolve to bring international-caliber cricketers to play at this venue, reiterating that the government remains fully committed to providing the necessary funding and institutional support to make such large-scale athletic events successful.