Shift venue from Srinagar: Minerva to AIFF

New Delhi, February 15 

Holders Minerva Punjab FC have requested All India Football Federation to shift their upcoming I-League match from Srinagar or defer it in the wake of the Pulwama terrorist attack, saying the club is ready to forfeit the tie if it is not rescheduled.

At least 40 CRPF troopers were killed when an explosive-laden SUV rammed into one of the buses in their convoy at Awantipora town on Thursday.

Defending champions Minerva Punjab FC are scheduled to play Real Kashmir FC on February 18 at Srinagar’s TRC Turf Ground.

“We have written to the AIFF requesting them to shift the game from Srinagar,” said Minerva FC owner Ranjit Bajaj. “We are willing to forfeit the game if it is not moved out,” he added.

I-League CEO Sunando Dhar, meanwhile, said: “We will see what the local authorities have to say. We will go ahead with the match if the local authorities give us a positive feedback. As of now, it is on, and shifting remains the last resort.” — PTI