The Uttar Pradesh T20 League could return to Lucknow, with the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) considering a venue change due to infrastructure and technical concerns at Green Park Stadium. According to a Times of India report, the league may now be shifted to the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium.
The possible change comes just weeks after the UPCA announced Kanpur as the host for the tournament. During a press conference on May 13, the association confirmed that Green Park Stadium would stage the fourth edition of the UPT20 League, but the latest developments have put that plan in doubt.
Green Park Stadium Faces Infrastructure and Floodlight Concerns Ahead of UPT20 League
The UPCA is reconsidering Green Park Stadium as the venue for the UPT20 League after a technical inspection revealed several infrastructure concerns. With the tournament scheduled for August, officials reviewed the stadium's facilities to ensure they meet the required standards.
According to the Times of India, the UPCA began a detailed assessment after the India-Afghanistan match to evaluate whether Green Park Stadium was ready to host the tournament.
“Since the conclusion of the India-Afghanistan international match, UPCA officials have been carrying out a comprehensive technical assessment of the playing conditions at Green Park Stadium in view of the proposed three-week-long tournament,” a source said.
The inspection found that the stadium's floodlights do not meet the lighting standards required for high-quality television broadcasts. According to the report, the current system falls short of the level needed for night matches.
"The broadcasting team requires a minimum illumination of 1,700 lux for high-quality telecast, whereas the existing floodlights at Green Park generate only around 1,400 lux."
Reduced Capacity Adds to Green Park Stadium Concerns
Apart from the floodlight issues, Green Park Stadium is also facing concerns over its spectator capacity. According to a recent Public Works Department (PWD) report, the stadium will be allowed to accommodate only around 14,000 spectators during the upcoming UPT20 League.
The reduced capacity is significantly lower than the stadium's previous limit and could affect the tournament's planning. A smaller crowd would reduce the overall match-day atmosphere and limit the number of fans who can attend the games.
The lower seating capacity could also impact ticket revenue for the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association. With the league continuing to grow in popularity, officials are keen to host the tournament at a venue that can accommodate larger crowds and provide a better overall experience.
Rain and Drainage Issues Could Force Venue Change for UPT20 League
Green Park Stadium also faces concerns over waterlogging during the monsoon season. The venue has experienced drainage problems in the past, often delaying the resumption of play after heavy rain.
With the UPT20 League scheduled in August, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association is concerned that frequent rainfall in Kanpur could disrupt matches throughout the tournament. Poor drainage could lead to repeated delays and affect the smooth running of the league.
According to the Times of India, these issues have strengthened the case for shifting the tournament to the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. The venue offers modern floodlights, better drainage, and a larger seating capacity, making it a stronger option for hosting the competition.
