The legendary Olympian Prithipal Singh Hockey Stadium at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, is getting a much-needed facelift. The old AstroTurf, last replaced in 2011, had worn out and become uneven, making the ground unsuitable for top-level play. Work is now underway to lay a brand-new synthetic surface, marking a major step forward for hockey in the region.
The old turf, first installed in 1999, has been removed, and a new bitumen base has been laid in preparation for the fresh turf. Though the rainy season has slightly delayed progress, the stadium is expected to reopen by early next month. In the meantime, players have shifted their training to the Malwa Khalsa School ground.
This stadium, the only AstroTurf hockey facility at any agricultural university in India, holds historic significance. It was named after hockey legend Prithipal Singh, who represented India in the 1960, 1964, and 1968 Olympics and was one of PAU’s most celebrated alumni. Other PAU players like Charanjit Singh (1964 Olympic gold-winning captain), Ramandeep Singh, Rajwinder Singh, Lata Mahajan, and Yadwinder Singh Deol have also made their mark on the national and international stage.
The upgraded surface will be a blue and pink Greenfield Holland turf supplied by Syncotts International—known for high-quality sports installations. It promises better playing conditions, improved safety, and a professional experience for budding hockey players.
The stadium, with a seating capacity of around 10,000, is jointly managed by PAU and the Punjab Sports Department. A 1998 agreement ensures cooperation between the two for its upkeep and operation.
Former PAU coach Harinder Singh Bhullar, who was involved in the original turf installation in 1999 with a Dutch team, shared his emotional connection to the stadium. “I still remember working late into the night with just a torch in hand. The Dutch experts were so committed—they worked through the night with incredible discipline,” he recalled.
Bhullar and Olympian Hardeep Singh Grewal, now president of Hockey Ludhiana, both expressed excitement over the upgrade. Grewal highlighted the need for young players to train on AstroTurf to refine their skills and adapt to the modern game. He also suggested that the stadium’s management be handed fully to either PAU or the Sports Department to ensure consistent care.
“This new turf will inspire the next generation. It’s not just an upgrade, it’s an investment in the future of Indian hockey,” said Grewal.
The hockey community in Punjab is looking forward to the stadium’s reopening and believes the world-class upgrade will energize youth participation and lift the sport’s profile in the region.
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