As Aizawl prepares to host its first ever I-League match on 16th January, 2016, many football fans eager to witness history being made gathered today (12th Jan) at the various outlets where tickets are sold. Half of the tickets were sold off in under an hour.
The tickets have been priced at Rs. 200, Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000. All the tickets worth Rs.200 were sold off in just an hour. Tickets worth Rs.500 were sold off at a slighly slower pace, however, it was reported that almost all the tickets worth Rs.500 were sold off before the day was over. As of now, it is certain that 80% of the tickets have been taken.
The Rajiv Gandhi Stadium which is to be the home ground of Aizawl FC is undergoing construction and is able to seat around 8000 people. However, for reasons concerning the security and safety of fans, only 6000 tickets were made for the Saturday match.
The rapid rate at which the tickets were sold off attests, once again, the love the Mizo people have for football. The seating capacity of the stadium is estimated to be more than 30,000 once constuction is completed. When that has happened, it is undoubtable that the stadium will see a turnout of atleast 10,000 especially for important I-League matches judging from the way even local tournaments attract more than 10,000 fans at the Assam Rifle Grounds.
written by : Lalsangliani Ralte