The rain gods had other plans for the India vs Bangladesh test match in Kanpur, washing out the second consecutive day of the match. Fans, already disappointed with the delay caused by overnight rain on the third day, were enraged when the umpires announced that play would not resume. They unleashed their fury on social media, directing their anger at the BCCI and the Green Park Stadium, which they branded the “worst venue.”
The stadium’s drainage system came under heavy fire as the outfield remained wet despite the sun emerging around noon. Fans questioned BCCI’s ability to manage its venues, especially considering the organization’s vast wealth. “Despite being the richest cricket board in the world, BCCI doesn’t leave any opportunity to defame our country’s name. BCCI should be ashamed for organizing an international match in a stadium where the drainage system is so bad. Shame on you BCCI,” one user wrote on X. Others echoed the sentiment, demanding accountability for the poor state of the ground. “What’s the use of richest cricket board when you can’t improve the existing stadium?” another user questioned.
The outrage extended to the BCCI’s overall management, with fans scrutinizing the organization’s spending. “They collect so much thru fees, tickets, etc. from public. They sit on tons money & huge resources. But ultra lazy & corrupt management can’t even do their basic minimum job right once,” one user commented. The lack of proper infrastructure and the mismanagement of funds were major points of contention.
Amidst the growing frustration, a 2019 video of Virat Kohli resurfaced, reminding fans of the then-captain’s call for “dedicated test centres” in India. Some users echoed Kohli’s suggestion, arguing that test matches should be confined to “iconic” venues like Wankhede, Eden Garden, Chepauk or Feroz Shah Kotla. “Ban cricket in such random stadiums,” one user demanded. The frustration with the Kanpur venue boiled over, with many fans demanding a change in the selection of venues for future matches.
The washout of the Kanpur test match highlights the urgent need for better infrastructure and management within the BCCI. Fans are calling for greater accountability and a more strategic approach to hosting international matches, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for both players and spectators.
