It’s great to see Durand Cup is still alive and kicking. This one tournament has always fascinated me since 1996. It is all about exuberance and fun. It’s late October and there is nip in the air. I grabbed a cup of hot tea and settled down firmly on the terrace of Ambedkar Stadium. I’m sure football lovers would agree: you get the best view from top.
From the senior citizens to the youth and some aspiring footballers huddled in a small space. They discussed about Durand Cup and how it sustained itself through the years right from 1888. I also wondered, what is special about Durand Cup? Even the limited budget in recent years hasn’t stopped the Indian Army from organising the world’s third oldest football event.
With almost all the domestic events have dried up, Durand Cup offer a ray of hope to some smaller teams who get little or no opportunity to play in Indian tournaments. In fact, Indian Army’s unflinching support has bolstered the event to the extent that even after its 123rd edition, it stands tall and firm.
I remember, couple of years back, the sponsors and event management company had chipped in with a lot of promise. Pity, they couldn’t understand the significance of Durand Cup. They pitched in with hi-tech gadgets, big screens, played some English numbers on the loudspeakers. For them, it was like any other non-sport event. Dhol- tashe and tamasha. First, they ran out of money and later they ran out of ideas and innovations. And finally, they faded into oblivion. Last time, I was told, they are into squash tournaments!!
Well, organising a football event is a tough job in India. And hosting Durand Cup is even more difficult in an age, when there would be more youths talking about EPL. Besides, the major reshuffling of national events recommended by Bob Houghton had even forced the Durand organisers to compromise with its schedule. I don’t understand why Houghton came up with such weird ideas. He should know, Durand Cup, like other domestic events, can be a great grooming ground for young and aspiring players. And closure of it would mean that football development would come to a standstill just like hockey.
Protecting national team players is one thing. But on the pretext of shutting down tournament like Durand force us to think that the Englishman is venting his frustration against the system.
Think cleverly and act smartly. I think, Houghton should be told.
