Many countries have leveraged their natural beauty by constructing stadiums that host sporting events and attract tourists. The West Indies offers prime examples, with Barbados, Jamaica, St. Vincent, and Guyana stadiums surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Other notable venues include New Zealand and India’s Dharamshala Stadium in Himachal Pradesh, famed for its breathtaking scenery.
Cox’s Bazar holds similar potential in Bangladesh, yet the vision for a world-class stadium remains unfulfilled. Initially, the Sheikh Kamal International Cricket Stadium, which was planned to have the highest spectator capacity in the country, was meant to harness this potential. However, more than a decade after its foundation stone was laid in September 2013, the stadium now lies in disrepair.
Cox’s Bazar has long lacked adequate sports facilities, and local sports enthusiasts are calling for the urgent stadium renovation.
District Commissioner Mohammad Salahuddin told Cox’s Bazar Life that with all necessary facilities, action must be taken to address the stadium’s condition.
He emphasized the need for coordination with the National Sports Council and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to advance the renovation efforts.
Photo: Rajin Saleh
