"We have been sounded out by the AIFF if we can host the match if the stadium in Guwahati is not ready for the match. We have said yes, we can hold the match at Ambedkar Stadium," Delhi Soccer Association vice-president N K Bhatia told PTI.
Assam Football Association Secretary and AIFF Executive Committee member Ankur Dutta said the pitch at the Guwahati stadium where the match would be held was under repair and he was hopeful that it would be ready for the game.
"Proper maintenance by the concerned department was lacking and due to winter grass dying. So we have called a curator from the AIFF and have planted new grass and applied fertilisers. Hopefully, the ground will be ready for the match," Dutta said.
"I have no issues if the match is shifted to Delhi if our stadium is not ready. I am hoping that a supervisor from the AIFF will come by January 22 or 23 to inspect the ground before taking a decision," he added.
The AIFF has planned a short national camp here starting from the last week of this month before the match.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
