Bhubaneswar may host 2014 HIL matches
Bhubaneswar is all set to become the newest venue for global tournaments after the International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Wednesday said that the city has the required facilities to host mega events.
The green patch at Kalinga Sports Complex had charmed organisers of the Hockey India League. The stunning new turf today impressed a five-member delegation that included representatives of the International Hockey Federation.
After inspecting the new artificial hockey turf at the Kalinga Stadium, FIH chief executive officer Kelly Fairweather however suggested that the stadium must develop a practice ground and install floodlights at the earliest to host 2014 Hockey India League (HIL) matches and international tournaments.
The propose of FIH team visiting the stadium is to see the facility to hold Challenger Cup Hockey matches in 2014. They have suggested some renovation like light stand, dressing rooms for players and umpires and a practice ground. Already the ground work has been started we would complete these entire thing in this year itself, said Development Commissioner I Srinivas.
“This is my first visit and I am impressed with the willingness and enthusiasm among the stadium staff and senior government officials here. I am glad to learn that the state has not only produced several world-class players, but people here also have a passion for hockey.”
The other members of the delegation included Hockey India (HI) CEO Elena Norman, HI competition director Todd Flauds, FIH marketing adviser Mathew Osmin and Lokesh Sharma, MD TCM.
