Assam: Kokrajhar decked up for opening ceremony, inaugural match of Durand Cup

Guwahati: The wait is finally over as Assam's Kokrajhar is all set to witness the first of seven matches of the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup to be played at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Stadium from July 30, 2024, to August 21, 2024.

The trophy display ceremony at the Bodofa Auditorium on July 14, 2024, and the trophy tour, conducted across five districts of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), have created euphoria among the locals, who eagerly await the commencement of the tournament's league matches.

The opening ceremony will take place on Tuesday (July 30) at the SAI Stadium, with the kick-off scheduled for 3 pm, and gates opening for spectators at 12 noon.

The Indian Army, in close coordination with the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), has left no stone unturned to make this event a grand success.

The stadium has undergone extensive renovations in the run-up to the tournament, including the upgradation of floodlights for the night matches and the installation of a state-of-the-art drainage system to ensure smooth conduct of matches even during rain.

A number of thrilling military displays from the three services of the Indian Armed Forces and a cultural fiesta by the locals are also lined up to add to the festivities.

These celebrations coincide with the Anti-Terrorism Day being celebrated in BTR, marking the return of normalcy, peace and prosperity.

Football enthusiasts can expect a thrilling contest between the local team Bodoland FC, and the North East United FC in the inaugural match, with both teams boasting talented players and seasoned coaches.

Other chapters of the tournament are being held in the cities of Kolkata, Shillong and Jamshedpur. A total of 24 teams are participating in the tournament, vying for the three coveted Durand Cup Trophies.