Dance damages field of play, Blasters protest Kaloor Stadium neglect
With their next home game against Odisha FC looming on January 13, the Blasters are in a race against time to ensure the pitch is playable.
Kerala Blasters pitch before and after the third party event (Photo credit: Aswathy & KBFC media)
Kerala Blasters FC have raised serious concerns about the condition of the playing surface at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor, following damages caused by a recent third-party event.
Known for hosting some of the best football matches in India, the stadium’s pitch is now in dire straits just days before the Blasters’ Indian Super League (ISL) clash against Odisha FC.
The issue stems from a large-scale Bharatnatyam performance held on December 29, an event aimed at setting a Guinness World Record with over 11,000 dancers participating.
While the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), which owns the stadium, insists that proper approvals were in place, the Blasters have alleged a breach of agreement.
The club reportedly issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC), but it included a specific clause to protect the field of play (FoP)—a clause that was blatantly ignored.
The Blasters argue that this negligence has left the pitch unfit for professional football.
The club, meanwhile, has been forced to mobilize its pitch team, working around the clock to restore the field to match-ready condition.
The restoration efforts have reportedly led to significant financial strain on the Blasters, adding to their frustration.
A Pattern of neglect?
This incident highlights a broader issue of negligence when it comes to maintaining world-class sporting facilities in India.
Hosting non-sporting events on playing surfaces without adequate precautions not only endangers the quality of the pitch but also undermines the spirit of professional sports.
For Kerala Blasters, the damage isn’t just physical — it’s a blow to their preparations, morale, and financial health.
With their next home game against Odisha FC looming on January 13, the Blasters are in a race against time to ensure the pitch is playable.
Fans, too, are eagerly waiting to see if their beloved team will be able to put up a good performance on a ground they call home.
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