Ranchi: The city is all set to become part of a 138-year-old footballing legacy as it prepares to host the prestigious 135th edition of the Durand Cup for the first time this year.In the maiden year, Ranchi will host seven matches, including a quarter-final, at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Morhabadi between July 26 and Aug 16, marking a significant milestone for Jharkhand’s sporting landscape.With less than a month left for kick-off, preparations are underway in full swing at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium. The venue is undergoing extensive infrastructural upgrades, including laying fresh grass to improve the playing surface and renovating several sections of the stadium to meet tournament standards, with a special focus on maintaining safety standards.Sports department director Chhavi Ranjan said hosting the prestigious tournament would provide a major boost to football in the state.“Jharkhand possesses immense potential in several sports and hosting a prestigious cup like the Durand Cup will further motivate the budding players of the state. With just less than a month left for the tournament, preparations are ongoing in full swing to meet the standards set by the All India Football Federation. Apart from motivating our youth, these kinds of tournaments provide us the opportunity to upgrade our sports infrastructure and benefit the young players,” he said.Ahead of the opening match on July 26, a grand trophy parade will be held in Ranchi and Gumla on July 18 to build excitement for the Durand Cup. The colourful procession will feature hundreds of artists showcasing Jharkhand’s rich cultural heritage through traditional performances, while Army bands will add to the spectacle with band displays, creating a buzz and enthusiasm for the tournament among the public.The Birsa Munda Football Stadium, with a seating capacity of 30,000, is expected to welcome thousands of football fans during the tournament. “Entry to all matches will be through tickets, which will be issued free of cost,” Ranjan added.
