A fresh wave of debate and emotion has swept across Tripura following all-rounder Manisankar Murasingh going unsold in the IPL Auction 2026. The development triggered disappointment and anger among cricket fans and Murasingh’s supporters, many of whom took to social media to express their frustration over the talented cricketer being overlooked.
Amid the reactions, Tipra Motha founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Deb Barma stepped in with a constructive proposal, urging the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTADC) to appoint Manisankar Murasingh as its brand ambassador. Deb Barma made the appeal through a social media post on Wednesday, calling for greater recognition of homegrown talent and the need to celebrate local achievers beyond national leagues and commercial platforms.
In his message, Deb Barma stressed that Murasingh’s contribution to cricket and his consistent performances have brought pride to Tripura, irrespective of the outcomes of the Indian Premier League auctions. He noted that sporting merit should not be judged solely by IPL selection, and that Murasingh remains an inspiration for countless young athletes across the state.
The proposal, observers say, goes beyond individual recognition. By projecting Murasingh as a role model and brand ambassador, the TTADC could harness his influence to motivate tribal youth to take up sports, especially cricket. Deb Barma argued that involving accomplished sportspersons in institutional initiatives can help promote discipline, perseverance, and healthy competition, while also creating pathways for young talent from remote and tribal areas.
The suggestion has quickly gained traction online, drawing widespread support from sports enthusiasts, civil society members, and local leaders. Many believe that honoring Murasingh in this manner would send a strong message about valuing local talent and investing in grassroots sports development.
Analysts point out that such an initiative could significantly strengthen Tripura’s sporting ecosystem, particularly at a time when cricket is gaining popularity among the youth. Recognizing figures like Murasingh, they add, could inspire the next generation to dream big—regardless of setbacks on the national stage.
