AIFF deputing two observers to Kashmir for Santosh Trophy

Srinagar, May 14 (UNI) Two All India Football Federation (AIFF) observers will arrive here on May 17 to check the infrastructure required for hosting the 62nd Santosh Trophy.

Jammu and Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) president Zameer A Thakur told UNI that AIFF Vice President Subrata Dutta and AIFF member Nasir Ali would be visiting Kashmir to check the infrastructure required for hosting such a big national sporting event.

He expressed the hope that the AIFF would elect Jammu and Kashmir as the host of this year's championship.

Thakur said three grounds -- Bakshi Stadium, Polo ground and Amar Singh College -- have been selected for hosting the tournament.

''It will be very painful for hundreds and thousands of football lovers in the Valley and discouraging for JKFA if the AIFF does not allow the holding of the mega event in Srinagar after more than 29 years,'' he added.

Srinagar had hosted the 35th Santosh Trophy in 1978 when Goa lifted the trophy beating Bengal 2-0. The Bakshi Stadium had also hosted the Federation Cup in 1984.

UNI