Ranchi: With the city set to host Durand Cup matches for the first time, the tournament’s three iconic trophies were taken on a roadshow on Saturday to build excitement ahead of the meet later this month.The Durand Cup, the President’s Cup and Simla Trophy arrived at the Kerketta Auditorium in Dipatoli Military Station from Guwahati, where they were welcomed by sports and youth affairs minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu, Major General Sajjan Singh Mann and other dignitaries.Calling it a significant occasion for Jharkhand, the minister said, “It is a matter of great pride to welcome the 135th Indian Oil Durand Cup to Ranchi. We eagerly look forward to the opening match on July 26, which will be graced by chief minister Hemant Soren.”Highlighting the tournament’s expansion, Major General Mann said Ranchi’s inclusion followed the successful hosting of Durand Cup matches in Jamshedpur last year. “This reflects our commitment to taking top-quality football to new regions while strengthening Jharkhand’s rich footballing tradition,” he said.After a ceremonial flag-off, the trophies toured through Kokar, Lalpur Chowk, Karamtoli Road, Kutchery Road and Sujata Chowk before returning to the military station. The convoy made stops at Circular Road, Morabadi Ground and Albert Ekka Chowk, where cultural programmes were organised.The trophy tour will continue in Gumla on Monday before moving to Kolkata on July 22.Ranchi will host all Group C fixtures at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Morabadi. The group features ISL side Jamshedpur FC, Sporting Club Delhi, Indian Air Force football team and defending champions Defenders FC of the Sri Lankan armed forces.On July 26, Jamshedpur FC will take on Defenders FC. The city will also host a quarter-final match on Aug 16. Besides Ranchi, matches will be held in Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong and Imphal.