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What’s the story?
The qualifying rounds of Santosh Trophy begun this week. Delhi locked horns with Himachal Pradesh at Sharda Football Ground in Greater Noida on Thursday where the hosts thrashed Himachal 6-0. Delhi’s splendid performance was overshadowed by the condition of the ground. There was hardly anything green on the pitch and footballers were under great risk of suffering an injury. The field had a layer of sand which in turn affected the game as it was not up to the mark.
In case you didn't know...
Unfortunately, Santosh Trophy has become a mere shadow of its past glory. The ex-players have been constantly urging AIFF to give more importance to this tournament as it provides a platform to budding footballers. Having said that AIFF has done precious little.
The heart of the matter
Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh and Uttarakhand are participating in the tournament.
The tournament is being organised by the Gautam Budh Nagar Football Association in association with AIFF and Uttar Pradesh football Sangh.
The football lovers of the National Capital Region (NCR) are in for a treat as they to witness the players from various states in action in the north zone qualifiers of Santosh Trophy.
However, the match between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh did not reach the optimum standard as the ground was not in shape. The players had no option but to continue with the game, putting their bodies at risk.
What’s next?
The condition of the ground pleased neither the players nor the officials. It will be difficult for Sharda Football Ground to get matches in future.
Author’s take
AIFF must take care of these basic facilities. Players are the assets and if they are neglected then the game can't be taken to the next level in the country.
