In yet another instance of BCCI falling short, Ekana Stadium in Lucknow has left many spectators disheartened. Lucknow is considered to be rich in culture and literature; India still lacks toilets despite many attempts to prove itself a regional power. The experience, from ticket collection to amenities, paints a bleak picture of the current state of affairs.
Ticket Collection Hassles The process of obtaining physical tickets proved to be a major ordeal. With just two box offices available on match day, the queues were painfully long, especially considering the stadium’s vast capacity. Astonishingly, women and foreigners bypassed these queues altogether. This glaring disparity left many frustrated.
Lack of Drinking Water One of the basic amenities promised by the BCCI – free water – was conspicuously absent. Instead, water was being sold at a steep price of Rs. 10 per glass. To make matters worse, the glasses themselves were far from clean, marred by visible specks of dirt.
Unsanitary Washrooms The condition of the washrooms was deplorable. They were far from the standard one would expect at a venue hosting a major event. This not only reflects poorly on the stadium but also raises questions about the priority given to fan comfort and hygiene.
Food and Hygiene Issues Food arrangements left much to be desired. Reports of unhygienic drinking water, stained floors, and unclean glasses paint a grim picture of the overall experience. These issues not only mar the enjoyment of the game but also raise serious concerns about spectator welfare.
Connectivity Woes Adding to the list of grievances, there were problems with stadium connectivity. Attendees had to undertake a long walk to enter, which further compounded the inconvenience.
Pitch Quality However, one bright spot was the pitch itself. Unlike previous tournaments, where pitches were subpar, the newly laid pitch at Ekana Stadium was praised for its quality. It was deemed one of the best in the tournament, highlighting the potential the venue holds if managed properly.
In conclusion, the experience at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow, raises serious questions about BCCI’s capacity to host major events. From ticketing to amenities, the shortcomings were glaring. It is imperative that corrective measures are taken promptly to ensure that Indian cricket’s premier venues are up to par with international standards.
