India, Bangladesh plan football tourney

The All India Football Federation and its and Bangladeshi counterpart are finalising the modalities of a tournament between the leading clubs of the two countries, to be played in Kolkata sometime next February.

AIFF chief Priya Ranjan Das Munshi mooted the idea of the tournament, which is being billed as part of the process to improve ties between the two countries. His proposal was lapped up the Bangladesh football federation.

The tournament – to be called the Ganga-Jamuna Cup -- is in the planning stage, with details like the number of teams to participate, the format and logistics being worked out. The AIFF proposal has reached Bangladesh football chief S.A. Sultan.

AIFF sources said while India wants the top three teams of each country to participate in the tourney, Bangladesh want an eight-team format.

Top Bangladeshi teams such as Mukti Joddha, Brothers' Union and Dhaka Mohammedan could play. East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting could represent the Indian clubs.

Dhaka had initially agreed to host the tournament, but later backed out because it did not have the venues ready. The AIFF then offered to host it in Kolkata.

Though no dates have been firmed up, the competition could be held anytime between February 9 and 20 when there are no domestic championships.

The tournament, if successfully held, could become an annual affair.