Shivaji stadium wears a fresh look

12 October, 2012

Shivaji stadium, which finds a special place among many players looks world class after the renovation. Fans would soon watch their favourite stars in action at the stadium.

SHIVAJI STADIUM – used for athletes' practices during 2010 Commonwealth Games – will come alive with the under-17 girls' tournament.

The stadium has undergone a huge change and is looking in great shape. They stadium has got an air conditioned changing room as well along with good floodlights, for matches to be played at night. New seats have been put up and the number of seats has increased to 60,000 which would provide a magnificent sight when full. For that to happen, big international matches need to be played at the stadium.

Kukoo Walia, organiser, JNHC and a former player recalled his days at Shivaji stadium in the nnis video, “I have played hockey here and also umpired here. Around 15,000 – 20,000 would be inside the stadium for big tournaments. This stadium is such, which has a good history with hockey.”

Indian hockey may be on a decline, but during the past, hockey fans would go crazy while supporting their teams. They would give up anything to watch the game. Walia added, “People used to come here without eating any food to watch the game.”

Sunita Pant, a former player and an umpire has been impressed with the changes brought about in the stadium and said, “There are many changes in the stadium. It has become a world class stadium.” She also feels that it is ready to host international matches as well.