Green Park Stadium Defended Amidst Criticism Over Waterlogging
The Green Park Stadium in Kanpur has faced criticism after two days of play in the second India-Bangladesh Test were abandoned due to waterlogging, despite no rain during scheduled hours. BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla has defended the facilities, acknowledging the stadium’s heritage but also recognizing the need for upgrades.
Shukla emphasized that the ground is 80 years old and has been a permanent Test center. He noted that this is the first time in eight decades that rain has prevented play for two consecutive days. However, he conceded that the drainage system needs improvement.
“When this ground was built, those technologies were not available. Now technologies are available,” Shukla said. “We are planning to develop a system to drain rainwater immediately.”
The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) is responsible for the stadium’s upkeep under an MoU with the UP government. Shukla met with government officials to discuss the situation and agreed on the need for upgrades.
“The ground has to be dug, new technology has to be applied, and everything has to be done,” Shukla said. “We will be able to improve the conditions here shortly.”
Shukla also defended Kanpur against criticism, stating that rain-related match abandonments occur worldwide. “Why unnecessarily Kanpur and Green Park is being blamed for something which is in nature’s hands?” he asked.