India, July 2 -- The tournament will include seven debutants, matches will be played across five cities

The Durand Cup football tournament this year will feature 24 teams, including seven debutants, with matches to be played across five cities from July 25 to August 23.

The tournament begins in Kolkata on July 25 before it is played in Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong and Guwahati over the next four weeks. The final will be held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.

The competition will once again bring together Indian Super League clubs, I-League sides, Services teams, emerging domestic outfits and overseas teams.

Among the seven debutants are Defenders FC of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces and Meghalaya Premier League champions ...