In a major boost to Uttar Pradesh’s cricketing ecosystem, Piyush Singh Chauhan, Vice Chairman of SR Group of Institutions, has been appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Ayodhya Premier League (APL).
The announcement was made jointly by the APL Organising Committee and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association on Friday.
The much-anticipated Ayodhya Premier League is set to begin on November 9 at B.R. Ambedkar Stadium, Ayodhya, marking the city’s entry into the professional cricketing landscape. The tournament will feature eight teams, each comprising around 30 players, competing in the T20 format.
Highlighting the league’s unique cultural concept, Chauhan said that all teams have been named after the rivers of Uttar Pradesh, symbolising the state’s rich natural and spiritual heritage.
The teams include Gomti Thunders, Ganga Warriors, Hidden Titans, Manorama Marbles, Saryu Smashers, Yamuna Super Kings, Chambal Chargers, and Betwa Blasters.
Expressing pride over the initiative, Chauhan said, “For the first time, under the supervision of the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, the District Cricket Association of Ayodhya is organising a professional cricket league in the holy city of Ayodhya Dham, the land of Maryada Purushottam Lord Ram.”
He emphasised that the primary objective of the APL is to provide a platform for emerging cricket talent across the state. “This league will nurture young players and help shape the future of cricket in Uttar Pradesh,” he added.
APL Director Baldev Srivastava welcomed Chauhan’s appointment, stating, “It is our privilege to have him as Vice Chairman. His visionary leadership and dedication to education, youth empowerment, and social development inspired the organising committee to unanimously select him for this role.”
The APL will also feature renowned players such as Gyanendra Pandey and Akshdeep Nath, both of whom have represented India internationally.
All matches will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Prasar Bharati, with games scheduled as day matches. Around 250 players are expected to participate in the tournament.
The champion team will receive a cash prize of ₹11 lakh and a trophy, while the runner-up will be awarded ₹5.5 lakh. Players will train and conduct practice sessions at the SR Institute’s cricket ground in Lucknow.
APL organisers also lauded the support of the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association and the state government, crediting their guidance for helping the league take shape.
With its blend of sportsmanship, cultural symbolism, and youth empowerment, the Ayodhya Premier League aspires to become a landmark event in Uttar Pradesh’s sporting calendar, promoting grassroots cricket and celebrating the state’s vibrant spirit.