The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) has slammed reports of security concerns at Kanpur’s Green Park ahead of the second Test between the Indian National Cricket Team and the Bangladesh National Cricket Team. The second game of the two-match Test series between the teams will be held from Thursday (September 27).

Kanpur’s Green Park came under scrutiny a day before the second Test match between India and Bangladesh. Some reports claimed that the C stand at the stadium was not in a condition, that there were security issues and that it could be dangerous for spectators.

Reports claimed that the 10,000-seat Balcony C was structurally compromised and could be at risk of collapsing due to the weight of the fans. But following that, UPCA took up immediate inspection of the venue ahead of the second Test match between India and Bangladesh.

UPCA brought in experts from the Public Works Department and Harcourt Butler Technical University, Kanpur to assess the situation. It is noteworthy that the stand at the venue was found fit, but they were advised to reduce the capacity of Balcony C.

UPCA venue director Sanjay Kapoor spoke about the rumours and said there are no security concerns at the venue, which will host the first Test between India and Bangladesh. However, he admitted that they have asked reduce capacity to 7,200. Speaking to IANS, he explained:

“These are unfounded rumours that there is a security issue for fans. Of the 10,000 seats available in the balcony, we have been advised to reduce the capacity to 7,200 and we are not selling tickets for the remaining 2,800 seats.”

“Despite the reduction in Balcony C, we have managed to increase the number of seats for fans by almost 6,000 since the last match. We now have 26,007 seats available for spectators at this event.”

Everything has been thoroughly reviewed: UPCA on Kanpur venue for India-Bangladesh Test

Sanjay Kapoor further provided an update on the floodlights, saying that everything has been thoroughly checked. He said that they are prepared for any kind of weather. He also highlighted that since PWD deems it unsafe for spectators, they have reduced the capacity. He explained:

“The floodlights are working properly and everything has been thoroughly checked. We are prepared for any weather challenge. On Tuesday, the Department of Public Works inspected the site and complained about the roof and also the iron barrier that is placed there.

“Today, after the conclusion, they did not go to the stands, because it was considered unsafe for spectators. However, after the debate, we are convinced that we will reduce the capacity and 2,000 tickets will be put on sale,” he concluded.

As for the Test series, India has taken a 1-0 lead in the series in both matches. They won the first game by a margin of 280 runs at the MA Chidabaram Stadium in Chennai. They will be eager to complete the shutout and pick up important points for the World Test Championship.