Bhubaneswar could become an international hockey venue soon

BHUBANESWAR: Bhubaneswar is all set to become the newest venue for global tournaments after the International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Wednesday said that the city has the required facilities to host mega events.
After inspecting the new artificial hockey turf at the Kalinga Stadium, FIH chief executive officer Kelly Fairweather however suggested that the stadium must develop a practice ground and install floodlights at the earliest to host 2014 Hockey India League (HIL) matches and international tournaments.
"It's a beautiful new stadium with nearly 10,000 spectator capacity. Though other facilities are fine, it needs a practice ground and the floodlights need to be set up soon to make it ready for international matches," said Fairweather, the leader of the five-member delegation.
"This is my first visit and I am impressed with the willingness and enthusiasm among the stadium staff and senior government officials here. I am glad to learn that the state has not only produced several world-class players, but people here also have a passion for hockey."
The other members of the delegation included Hockey India (HI) CEO Elena Norman, HI competition director Todd Flauds, FIH marketing adviser Mathew Osmin and Lokesh Sharma, MD TCM.
Norman, who had visited the stadium earlier on September 18, said, "The stadium, connectivity, swimming pool, galleries, press box and conference room facilities are really nice. I am satisfied with the progress and would be visiting the stadium after two weeks again."
State development commissioner Injeti Srinivas assured FIH and HI officials that the requisite land for the practice ground and auction for setting up the floodlights would be completed soon.