CT 2014: Teething problems and last minute touch ups

The countdown to Champions Trophy has begun and the teams have started arriving, but a casual visitor will find some teething problems and many last minute touch ups pending.

The Kalinga Stadium where the tournament is scheduled to start from December 6 looks elegant and inviting.

However, minor changes remain to be made in the major pitch, while the second pitch — which is being constructed for practice purpose is — yet to see the ‘light of the day’.

Recently, we saw a football stadium converted into a hockey one in a matter of weeks so as to host the World Cup, and against the backdrop, the today’s status of Kalinga look minor, after all 10 days are still pending.

In the second turf, the floodlights are yet to be put up and the dug-outs have yet to be installed.

While the organizers deny any problem — they know there is enough time – it seems some vital work left to be done in less time span.

The main turf also has to undergo certain changes.

The floodlights in the turf have less light and one of the sprinklers is mis-functioning right now.

Also, the new goalpost which is being imported will arrive at the Chennai port in a couple of days and make way in the stadium only later.

However, the officials are in a denial mode.

“What work is left? These are a matter of few hours. The floodlights will be put up in a day. We are completely ready. There are no issues at all,” said an official.

It is noteworthy to mention here that the Indian team will begin its practice session from tomorrow (November 28) and they are scheduled play practice on Pitch 2 on November 29 (Saturday).