Ranchi: The mega match of Asian women’s hockey started at 4 pm on Friday evening in Ranchi. Jharkhand Asian Champions Trophy started at Jaipal Singh AstroTurf Hockey Stadium in Marang Gomke, Morhabadi.
State Sports Minister Hafizul Hasan, Development Commissioner Jharkhand Arun Kumar Singh, DGP Ajay Kumar Singh, Hockey India General Secretary Bholanath Singh were present at the inauguration. The first match of the competition was played between Malaysia and Japan. A large number of spectators were present in the stadium. Second match played between China and Korea from 6 pm. Whereas hosts India and Thailand at 8.30 pm.
Ranchi city is completely covered with posters of the Asian Champions Trophy. The stadium and the area around the stadium are seen covered with Johar Asia posters. The district administration is fully prepared regarding security.
Facility for parking has been provided at Morhabadi ground. Ambulances and fire brigade vehicles are present in the stadium premises. A cut out of CM Hemant Soren with a hockey stick has been installed outside the ground.
The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 10 thousand spectators. If any spectator is not able to watch the match in the stadium, then arrangements have been made for them in Times Square in Morabadi. Where people can enjoy the match on a big LED screen. The match is being telecast live on Sony.