Asian Champions Trophy: Chennai’s Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium Gets Major Upgrade

Preparations are in full swing at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Egmore, Chennai, with just a month remaining for the highly anticipated Asian Champions Trophy.

The historic stadium, famous for hosting the Men’s Asia Cup in 2007, is undergoing significant renovations to ensure it meets international standards for the prestigious event.

Constructed in 1995, the stadium, with a seating capacity of over 8,000, is receiving brand-new turf, set to be unveiled later this month.

In addition to the main pitch, a new half-court turf is being installed to accommodate a future fast-paced five-a-side game.

Various upgrades are underway to enhance the infrastructure of the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium, which has hosted numerous domestic and international matches over the years.

The players’ dressing rooms, operational area, match officials’ rooms, and floodlights are being revamped to meet International Hockey Federation (FIH) standards.

Expressing his joy at the return of international hockey to Chennai after nearly 16 years, Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, reminisced about the Indian team’s memorable victory in the 2007 Asia Cup, held at the same stadium.

He acknowledged the Tamil Nadu Government’s support and enthusiasm for hosting the prestigious event. He highlighted Hockey India’s efforts to revitalise hockey infrastructure by organising domestic and international tournaments across various states.

Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, echoed the President’s sentiments, noting that excitement for the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Chennai 2023 is growing as the event approaches.

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He emphasised the collective efforts of Hockey India and the Tamil Nadu government to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament, which not only promotes the development of international standard infrastructure but also provides an opportunity for people to enjoy the sport.

Sekar J. Manoharan, Treasurer of Hockey India and head of the State Member Unit in Tamil Nadu, praised the government’s support and emphasised the importance of upgrading facilities at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium to host a major international tournament successfully.

He expressed his delight at the outcome of the stadium’s renovation. He conveyed the Tamil Nadu government’s and Hockey India’s anticipation of welcoming the participating teams and hockey fans for a memorable event.