Noida: The Jharkhand T20 Cricket League, owned by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) and managed by SJ Uplift, has officially announced the opening of franchise bidding for its inaugural season. Conceptualised in alignment with Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) domestic T20 standards, the league is inviting interested entities to bid for team ownership and operations, marking a significant step forward for cricket in the state.
The bidding process will commence on 7th May 2026 at 10:00 AM and remain open until 11th May 2026 at 11:59 PM. Applicants are required to complete registration, KYC formalities, and financial submissions through the official online portal within the stipulated timeline.
The inaugural edition will feature six district-based franchise teams representing key regions across Jharkhand. The tournament will comprise 24 league-stage matches, followed by two semi-finals and a grand finale, taking the total to 27 matches. Each franchise will field a squad of at least 15 players, all registered cricketers from Jharkhand, reinforcing the league’s focus on nurturing local talent and strengthening the regional cricket ecosystem.
Ajay Nath Shahdeo, President, Jharkhand State Cricket Association, said, “Jharkhand T20 Cricket League is a major step towards strengthening the state’s cricket ecosystem. This platform will create new opportunities for local talent, bring professional structure to the game, and drive long-term growth for cricket in Jharkhand.”
Sanjay Pandey, Vice President, Jharkhand State Cricket Association, said, “With the launch of the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League, we are building more than just a tournament; we are creating a structured platform that blends sporting excellence with opportunities. This league will play a pivotal role in identifying grassroots talent, enhancing regional cricket infrastructure, and positioning Jharkhand as an emerging hub for professional cricket development.”
Saurabh Tiwary, Honorary Secretary, Jharkhand State Cricket Association, said, “The launch of the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League marks an exciting milestone for cricket in our state. This league is designed to provide a structured and competitive platform for emerging players from Jharkhand while creating strong opportunities for investors and franchise partners to be part of a transformative sporting ecosystem.”
Shahbaz Nadeem, Honorary Joint Secretary, Jharkhand State Cricket Association, added, “Jharkhand has consistently produced exceptional cricketing talent, and the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League will further strengthen this legacy by creating greater exposure and professional opportunities for our players. Through this platform, we aim to build a sustainable cricketing framework that benefits athletes, stakeholders, and fans alike.”
Detailed eligibility criteria, bidding guidelines, and submission requirements are available on the official platform. Successful bidders will be awarded franchise rights following evaluation and completion of formal agreements with league authorities.
