Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) is planning to host two Ranji Trophy matches at Green Park International Stadium in Kanpur during the 2026–27 domestic season, bidding farewell to the historic venue before it undergoes major renovation.Uttar Pradesh is expected to play three home and four away matches in the 2026–27 Ranji Trophy season. The UPCA has submitted an application to the Regional Sports Department seeking permission to stage two home fixtures at Green Park Stadium. If approved, the matches will mark the last first-class cricket action at the 81-year-old venue before it closes for nearly two years for renovation. The stadium is expected to return with a modern look and upgraded facilities.Green Park has hosted 84 first-class matches, including 53 Ranji Trophy games, between 1945 and 2025. Its first Ranji Trophy match was played in 1945 between United Provinces and Bengal. The venue has also staged 24 Test matches, 15 One-Day Internationals, one T20 International and four Indian Premier League matches, making it one of the country’s most historic cricket grounds.Talking to TOI, regional sports officer Karamveer Singh Yadav said, “Our stadium, ground and wicket are fully ready. Now, it remains to be seen when the govt issues the order for construction work, as the tender worth around Rs 457 crore is currently under process.”“There is a strong possibility that we will be able to host both matches if no demolition order is issued by the govt during the match dates,” he added.
