Shillong (Meghalaya), July 9: The city is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup for the second consecutive year. The Durand Cup trophies were unveiled at the State Convention Centre in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri, Air Marshal Surat Singh, and Lt. Gen Sanjay Malik.
The glittering trophies, including the Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy, and the President’s Cup, were showcased to the audience, building anticipation for the tournament that will kick off on July 23 and run until August 23. Shillong will host eight matches, including a quarterfinal and a semifinal, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here. A trophy roadshow will also tour Shillong, Nongstoin, and Tura, giving citizens a chance to catch a glimpse of the historic trophies.
The Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament and the third oldest in the world, has a rich history dating back to 1888 when it was initiated by Sir Henry Mortimer Durand in Shimla. Initially an all-military competition among British and Indian armed forces, the tournament has evolved over the years, allowing non-military teams to participate and becoming a prominent domestic football competition in India.
With 24 teams set to compete, the Durand Cup is expected to bring thrilling football action to Shillong and other host cities.
