Santosh Trophy to be held in Ludhiana

Earlier Football Delhi had been given the hosting rights of the competition.

We have some bad news for football fans in Delhi NCR, who were waiting to experience the Santosh Trophy, which was expected to be held in the national capital. Well, the final round of fixtures will now be held in Ludhiana, Punjab.

The fixtures will be held at the Guru Nanak Stadium, from 8th-21st April 2019.

Earlier, it was reported that Football Delhi had been given the hosting rights. The reason behind the change of venue has been revealed by association president Shaji Prabhakaran. Speaking exclusively to Khel Now he said, "AIFF wanted us to host the matches at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. But, we wanted it to happen in Ambedkar Stadium. So, they weren't convinced on Ambedkar Stadium."

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Final round of fixtures for the 2018-19 Santosh Trophy

Earlier the Times of India had revealed that AIFF officials weren't satisfied with the facilities at the Old Delhi-based ground; especially the condition of the dressing rooms. Also, Prabhakaran had earlier reportedly confirmed that the stadium would be made better and improved for the Santosh Trophy. He had also told TOI that the costs for using the JLN Stadium are not feasible for Football Delhi, which also included logistics. Further, the ground won't be packed by spectators due to its sheer size.