GUWAHATI: The three trophies of the 135th Durand Cup arrived in Shillong on Saturday, marking the beginning of the tournament's trophy tour in Meghalaya ahead of the competition, which is scheduled to begin later this month.
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A flag-off ceremony was held at the State Convention Centre in the presence of Meghalaya Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, senior officials from the Indian Armed Forces, the Meghalaya government, Meghalaya Police and the Durand Cup Organising Committee.
As part of the tour, the trophies will travel to Shillong, Jowai and Tura, allowing football enthusiasts to view the silverware before the tournament gets underway.
Addressing the gathering, state officials highlighted Meghalaya's growing role in hosting major sporting events and the government's continued investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development. They also reiterated the state's preparations for hosting the 39th National Games in 2027.
Senior military officials praised Meghalaya's contribution to the Durand Cup, noting that Shillong has emerged as one of the tournament's key venues because of its football culture and the support of local fans.
The 135th Durand Cup will be held from July 25 to August 23 across five states, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya.
Shillong will host eight matches, including a quarterfinal and a semifinal, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Three clubs, Shillong Lajong FC, Nongkseh SS&CC and Langsning FC, will be among the teams participating in this year's edition of the tournament from Meghalaya.