Punekars might just get lucky this IPL season. They have their own team — Sahara Pune Warriors — to defend and may also get to witness at least two games on the home ground, at the new stadium being built by the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA).
The Sahara group, which owns Pune's IPL team, has invested Rs. 207 crore in the ‘Subroto Roy Sahara Stadium,' named after its chairman.
The announcement was made at a press conference addressed by MCA chairman Ajay Shirke and International Cricket Council president Sharad Pawar here on Saturday.
The initial investment of Rs.190 crore is borne by the MCA. Coming up on 32 acres, the stadium with a seating capacity of 45,000 is expected to be finished by April-end. Thus, “there is a strong possibility that at least two matches of Sahara Pune Warriors will be played on the home ground,” Mr. Shirke said.
“The MCA and the Sahara group have shown a consistent approach in support of Indian cricket. This will ensure Pune becoming a cricket destination,” said Mr. Pawar.
