Green Park's C stand deemed unsafe for India-Bangladesh Test
The Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) has declared a section of the Green Park stadium, known as the C stand, unsafe for spectators. This announcement comes ahead of the upcoming Test match between India and Bangladesh. As per ESPNcricinfo, the PWD advised against filling this stand to its full capacity due to structural concerns identified during an inspection conducted on Tuesday. Here are further details.
Inspection reveals structural issues in C stand
The inspection was carried out by a team from the PWD and the engineering department of Harcourt Butler Technical University in Kanpur. Sanjay Kapoor, the director of the venue, confirmed that some seats in block C are not safe for spectators. He emphasized that such inspections are standard procedure before any event. The C stand, one of Green Park's oldest structures, has been under repair for two days following this discovery.
Limited seating available for upcoming Test match
The upper block of the C stand, which can accommodate 4,800 spectators, will now only offer a limited number of seats based on the PWD's recommendation. Kapoor stated that approximately 1,750 seats in the upper block are still available for spectators. He also assured that full capacity seating will be maintained in the lower block despite these structural issues.
Green Park prepares for India-Bangladesh Test match
Despite previous visibility issues during a Test match against New Zealand in 2021, Kapoor assured that the floodlights are operational and ready for use if needed. He also confirmed that all necessary permissions from government departments have been obtained to host the international match. The Test match between India and Bangladesh is scheduled to start on Friday, September 27.
India's Test record in Kanpur
As of now, India have featured in 23 Test matches at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Their tally includes seven wins and three defeats, while 13 matches ended in a draw. India last lost a Test on this ground in October 1983, against the West Indies. Their only other losses came in 1952 (England) and 1958 (WI).
Kanpur pitch to favor both pace, spin
It has been learned that the 2nd Test between India and Bangladesh at Green Park will offer a balanced pitch for both pacers and spinners. The curator of the venue, Shiv Kumar, has revealed that the pitch will initially favor seamers but will gradually become more suitable for spin bowling. This strategic design aims to ensure a competitive five-day contest.
