Ahead of ICC's inspection, Sourav Ganguly says no to Ghulam Ali's concert at Eden Gardens

Kolkata: Keeping in mind an ICC inspection on January 15 at Eden Gardens ahead of the ICC World T20 2016, Cricket Association of Bengali (CAB) chief Sourav Ganguly has said that the Ghulam Ali concert that was scheduled to be held at the stadium will not happen now.

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The iconic stadium will host the final of the ICC World T20 and the former Indian skipper believes that any concert held ahead of the tournament may affect the stadium's chances of hosting the final.

 

Speaking to The Indian Express, Ganguly said: “We have received a proposal from the WBMDFC. But with the World T20 round the corner (in March-April), the stadium can’t be used for a cultural event. The ICC team will come for a venue inspection on January 15 and everything has to be in order. Else, matches might move out.”

 

The West Bengal Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (WBMDFC) has sent a proposal to CAB to hold the event at the Eden Gardens.

“I have informed the WBMDFC. I have also expressed my regret to Sultan Ahmed (Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MP). I had a meeting with DC (South) and told him it wouldn’t be possible. I will inform the chief minister,” he added.

 

Eden Gardens will host six World T20 fixtures, including the men’s and women’s finals on April 3.

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee in October had offered Kolkata as a venue for the legendary singer to perform after his proposed concert in Mumbai had to be cancelled following threats by the Shiv Sena.