The newly constructed Ekana International Cricket Stadium built in Lucknow is ready to host international matches as per reports. The Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) and International Cricket Council (ICC) representatives have recently visited the stadium for inspection.
ICC elite panel match referee Javagal Srinath and BCCI’s general manager MV Sridhar along with pitch curator Daljeet Singh were present at the stadium recently.
© BCCI
While Srinath and Sridhar were busy inspecting everything available at the stadium to confirm ICC’s accreditation, Daljeet was seen worried looking at the pitch condition. The stadium will host the final of the Duleep Trophy scheduled to start from September 25.
“We have the best playing facilities, including the biggest sight screen. To host an international tie, a few minor things need to be updated. It should not be an issue,” the former head of the BCCI’s pitch and ground committee, Daljeet Singh said.
All the representatives look pleased with the facilities of the stadium. Indian Premier League chairman Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) director Rajiv Shukla was also visibly impressed by the stadium.
Ekana Sports City’s director Udai Singh in a recent interview mentioned, “We were asked to conduct the Duleep Trophy matches on a short notice and we accepted the offer. It has helped us prepare the venue for international matches. If given the opportunity, we will not hesitate to conduct the India-New Zealand tie.”
The Ekana International Cricket Stadium first hosted its first Ranji Trophy match last season.
It is the second biggest stadium in India after Eden Gardens with a sitting capacity of 50,000 people.
