Sikkim is all set for the 38th edition of the All India Governor’s Gold Cup football tournament this year.
The football tournament will kick off on October 23 next.
This year, the prestigious Governor’s Gold Cup, which is now been categorized as an international tournament will feature as many as 12 teams.
Interacting with media in Gangtok on Sunday, the organizers of the soccer tournament, Sikkim Football Association (SFA) informed that the participating teams are:
Manang Marsangdi Club (Nepal), Armed Police Force Club (Nepal), Bengaluru FC (Reserves), ATK Kolkata (Reserves), Army Red, Sogolband United (Manipur), Rainbow FC (Kolkata), Calcutta Customs, George Telegraph, Aryans Kolkata, United Sikkim FC and Sikkim Aakraman FC.
The two state teams, United Sikkim FC and Sikkim Aakraman FC, have been included by virtue of finishing top on the table at the State league.
According to the new norms of All India Football Federation (AIFF), the tournament will be called international if it has participation of teams from outside the country.
In a setback to the football lovers of the State, defending champion Mohun Bagan won’t be participating this year as the I-League is starting simultaneously.
The opening tie will be played between United Sikkim SC and Aryans Kolkata.
The final will be played on November 3.
The organizers further informed that though the expenditure in the tournaments will increase this year, however, there will be no increase in the price of the tickets.
State Sports Minister R B Subba is likely to inaugurate the tournament.