The Aam Aadmi Party Bhagwant Mann government has announced plans to launch the Punjab Cricket League (PCL), an IPL-style tournament aimed at promoting sports participation among youth and steering them toward a healthy lifestyle.
Bhagwant Mann: League structure and support
According to BhagwantMann, the proposed league will be organised with support from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Punjab Cricket Association. District-level and regional teams are expected to participate, creating a competitive platform for emerging players across the state.
Youth engagement focus
The initiative is part of the state government’s broader campaign to connect young people with sports and encourage fitness. Officials say structured tournaments can provide direction, discipline, and professional exposure, particularly for talented players from smaller towns.
Anti-drug message through sports
Authorities highlighted that promoting sports is also linked to the administration’s goal of building a “fit and drug-free Punjab.” By expanding sporting infrastructure and competitive opportunities, the government aims to channel youth energy into positive activities.
Talent identification and exposure
Sports analysts believe that if implemented effectively, the league could serve as a scouting platform for state and national selectors, helping identify promising cricketers at grassroots levels while strengthening Punjab’s domestic cricket pipeline.
What comes next
The government is expected to release detailed guidelines on team selection, format, venues, and schedule in the coming months. Once launched, the Punjab Cricket League could become one of the first state-level franchise-style tournaments designed specifically to nurture local cricket talent.
Officials indicated that multiple stadiums and upgraded district grounds may be used as venues to ensure wide regional participation. Preparatory assessments are likely to be conducted to evaluate pitch standards, seating capacity, practice facilities, and broadcast readiness before finalising host locations.
