Shivaji Park, a cradle for generations of cricketers and athletes, is once again bearing the brunt of political activities. While political parties are officially granted permission to hold rallies for just one day, players and coaches say the disruption to sports at the ground stretches to nearly 10 days.

Following the political sabhas held on January 11 and 12, the condition of the ground remains far from normal even three and two days after the events, respectively. Garbage, discarded clothes, plastic waste, and food remnants are still strewn across large sections of the park. In several spots, the surface remains uneven and dug up, posing injury risks for players who return for practice soon after the rallies.