UP Cricket Association Closes Part of Stand at Kanpur Test

The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) has decided to limit ticket sales for the Balcony C stand at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur due to safety concerns raised by the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD). The PWD highlighted that the stand is in urgent need of repairs, stating it cannot safely accommodate even a small number of fans. Consequently, only 1,700 tickets will be sold for a stand that has a capacity of 4,800. Repair work is expected to continue for several days leading up to the match. In addition to the issues with the stand, the stadium is facing problems with its floodlights. Reports indicate that eight bulbs near the VIP pavilion are malfunctioning, which could affect visibility during the match. This is particularly concerning given the history of poor visibility at the venue, which has previously impacted game outcomes, including a Test match against New Zealand. UPCA CEO Ankit Chatterjee acknowledged the challenges posed by the stadium's condition, emphasizing the limited time available for repairs before the World Test Championship match. He noted that the stadium is not directly managed by the UPCA, which complicates the repair process. The association is making efforts to ensure the venue is ready for the upcoming match despite these setbacks. The decision to restrict access to the Balcony C stand reflects a commitment to fan safety, as the potential for a major incident could arise if the stand were to be overcrowded. The UPCA's proactive measures aim to prevent any tragedies and ensure a safe environment for spectators during the highly anticipated Test match against Bangladesh.