Lucknow: Cricket fans in Kanpur have received disappointing news as all matches of the fourth season of the Uttar Pradesh T20 League will now be played at the iconic Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium instead of the historic Green Park Stadium. The decision was finalized during a high-level meeting in New Delhi, marking a significant setback for one of Uttar Pradesh’s most celebrated cricket venues.
According to sources, the venue change stems from a combination of administrative disputes and infrastructure concerns. One of the major issues is a long-standing financial disagreement between the state sports department and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) regarding stadium rental charges. The dispute reportedly involves dues amounting to nearly ₹5 crore, with both sides differing on the applicable payment structure.
Infrastructure shortcomings at Green Park also played a crucial role in the decision. The stadium’s C-Balcony has reportedly been declared unsafe for use by the Public Works Department, while concerns have also been raised over the condition of the floodlights and drainage system. These factors collectively influenced the shift to Lucknow, where the modern Ekana Stadium offers upgraded facilities and greater operational readiness.
While the decision has effectively been approved, UPCA and the UP T20 League Governing Council are expected to formally announce the reasons behind the move during an upcoming press conference in Kanpur.
Preparations for the league, however, continue at full pace. A mini auction for the fourth season will be held in Agra on July 24, where all six franchises—Kanpur Superstars, Meerut Mavericks, Noida Super Kings, Lucknow Falcons, Gorakhpur Lions and Kashi Rudras—will bid for emerging talent.
The UP T20 League has become an important platform for young cricketers from the state, offering a pathway to higher levels of domestic cricket and potential opportunities in the Indian Premier League. With all matches now set to be staged in Lucknow, the upcoming season promises a fresh chapter for the tournament.
