In the time of floods, Pune comes to Chennai football team's rescue

QUICK PILL

• The semifinal of the Indian Super League between Chennaiyin FC and Atletico de Kolkata was put into jeopardy after devastating floods in Chennai.

• However, it has been announced that Pune City FC\'s home ground will now host the first leg of the fixture.

• The second leg will go ahead as planned at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

Rivals one day, friends the next. Pune City FC played their last game of the Indian Super League against Chennaiyin FC where they went down 1 - 0. Pune didn't make the semifinals of the league, but some things go beyond mere sporting rivalries.

While Pune City FC's season ISL season is over, it has been announced that the Balewadi stadium in Pune will host the first leg of the semifinal fixture between Chennaiyin FC and Atletico de Kolkata on December 12, in the wake of the flood aftermath in Chennai.

An official ISL release stated,

"IMG-Reliance and Star India along with the Chennaiyin FC management conclude to the decision of moving the Club's home ground to Pune, after evaluating all possibilities for Chennai to host the semi-final match."

"The decision was particularly difficult as Chennaiyin FC's fans have displayed immense passion and fortitude to support their Club through thick and thin this season. But it was one which had to be taken, keeping in mind the current situation in Chennai."