62nd Santosh Trophy in Kashmir

Srinagar, June 14 (UNI) The 62nd National Football Championship for Santosh trophy would finally be held in Jammu and Kashmir in May next year, a communication from All India Football Federation (AIFF) said.

Official sources said a fax message received here from the AIFF confirmed the allotment of the championship to the state.

The AIFF originally wanted to conduct the championship here in July-August. However, in view of the two-month long Amarnath Yatra, commencing from June 30, the authorities will remain busy with the yatra arrangements. Security forces will also remain deployed in full strength for the peaceful conduct of the Yatra.

'' Since the annual AIFF calendar is from June Ist to May 31st therefore holding the 62nd Santosh trophy at Srinagar in May next year will not disturb the continuity of the event,'' Sources said.

Though there was no threat, but for smooth conduct of the championship in Kashmir after 29 years, adequate number of security personnel were required, sources said adding it was decided not to press for holding the championship in July-August this year.

AIFF vice-president Subrata Dutta and executive committee member Syed Nasir Ali recently visited Srinagar and Jammu for on the spot study of grounds and other infrastructure.

The observers had directed the state authorities to upgrade the infrastructure needed for the game.

Earlier on May 18, Jammu and Kashmir Sports Minister Babu Singh announced has announced that the championship will be held from July 10. The last edition was held at Haryana in 2006.

Srinagar had last hosted the 35th Santosh Trophy in 1978 when Goa won the championship beating Bengal 2-0. The Bakshi stadium had also hosted the Federation Cup in 1984.

UNI