Shillong And Jamshedpur To Become Part Of Durand Cup’s Legacy

The 133^rd edition of the Indian Oil Durand Cup, scheduled to begin on July 27, 2024, holds a special place in Indian football. As the oldest football tournament in Asia and the third oldest in the world, the Durand Cup is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of India’s rich football heritage and a symbol of the sport’s enduring legacy in the country.

The tournament’s journey from Shimla to Delhi, a brief stint in Goa and Kolkata, and now across multiple cities, add to its storied legacy. Each location has brought its own unique flavour to the competition, enriching the Durand Cup’s history. To strengthen the civil-military relationship as well as to inspire the youth for a brighter, fitter and productive future, the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup will now be hosted in Jamshedpur and Shillong, alongside the existing venues of Kokrajhar and Kolkata.

The Durand Cup, organized by the Indian Armed Forces, has its history dating back to 1888, when it was established by Sir Henry Mortimer Durand, then Foreign Secretary of India. Originally a military competition, it showcased teams from various branches of the Indian Army. Over the years, it has evolved to include civilian teams, marking a significant shift in 1940 when Mohammedan became the first civilian team to win the tournament. This transition opened the doors for broader participation and helped integrate the sport more deeply into the national fabric.

One of the unique aspects of the Durand Cup is its award of three trophies to the winner: the Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy, and the President’s Cup. This tradition underscores the tournament’s prestige and historical significance. Despite interruptions during the World Wars and India’s struggle for independence, the Durand Cup has remained a steadfast symbol of football excellence in India.

The official kick-starter of the Indian football season, the tournament’s format has also evolved, now featuring a two-phase structure with round-robin group stages followed by knockout rounds. This format allows for extensive participation, with 24 teams from the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, and armed forces competing. The inclusion of ISL clubs, particularly since the 131st edition, when the Asian Football Confederation recognized the Durand Cup as one of India’s official cup tournaments, has elevated the competition’s profile and standard.

The Durand Cup has also been a launchpad for many of India’s football legends; from the likes of Sailen Manna, Chuni Goswami to Sunil Chhetri, who first gained national attention through the tournament. Recent stars like Sivasakthi Narayanan have also made their mark in the Durand Cup, further highlighting its importance as a breeding ground for future footballing icons.

The tournament’s rich history is filled with remarkable moments and milestones. Teams like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal have had intense rivalries, with Mohun Bagan holding the record for the most title wins. The Durand Cup has also seen participation from international teams, with Al-Naft from Iraq reaching the finals in 1996.

In addition to its sporting significance, the Durand Cup has been a stage for important societal and cultural moments. It is the only tournament in India, blessed by both the first President and the First Prime Minister of the country. Over the years, it has drawn prominent figures, including Presidents and Viceroys, to its matches, reflecting its esteemed status in Indian society.

As the 133rd edition is about to begin, the Durand Cup continues to be a testament to India’s footballing tradition and potential. It stands as a bridge between the sport’s historic roots and its future, fostering talent and inspiring new generations of footballers. The upcoming tournament promises to be another chapter in this illustrious legacy, celebrating the spirit of competition and the rich heritage of Indian football.