Even though the highly anticipated international friendly match featuring Lionel Messi and his World Champion Argentina squad, originally scheduled for November 17th, has been called off, significant progress is being made on the renovation of the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor, Kochi. Two crucial agreements have now been finalized to ensure the stadium’s upgrade.
The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) initiated the process by signing an agreement with the Sports Kerala Foundation (SKF). The SKF, a non-profit organization operating under the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs and chaired by the Sports Minister, has been entrusted with the stadium’s refurbishment. Following this, the SKF entered into a separate agreement with the Reporter Broadcasting Corporation (RBC) to undertake renovations that meet stringent FIFA standards. The RBC has committed to returning the stadium to the GCDA in its improved condition by November 30th.
Sources from the SKF have confirmed these arrangements, clarifying that their direct agreement is solely with the RBC, not the GCDA. Anto Augustine, Managing Director of RBC, reiterated this to the media, assuring that renovation efforts would continue as planned and the stadium would be returned as agreed. He also mentioned that an application would be submitted to the State government and the GCDA for permission to host the match once it’s confirmed, hinting at a potential rescheduling during the next FIFA window in March, though this remains unconfirmed.
Scrutiny Over Private Renovation
From the outset, questions have been raised regarding the precise nature of these agreements, particularly the involvement of a private entity in the renovation of a public asset. Since its inauguration in 1996, the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium has been a landmark in Kerala’s sporting landscape, hosting prestigious events like international cricket matches, Indian Premier League (IPL) fixtures, and FIFA Under-17 World Cup games. It also proudly serves as the home ground for the Indian Super League (ISL) team, Kerala Blasters FC. With the ISL season expected to commence in December, there’s growing concern among fans and officials alike about whether the stadium will be fully prepared to host matches on time.