KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 — Malaysian Stadium Corporation (MSC) chief executive officer Ahmad Helmi Harun admitted it had erred following criticism of the bad state of the football pitch at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

Although the stadium was closed for a year for upgrading works, Ahmad Helmi revealed the first six months was spent refurbishing the National Stadium — even though the main problem was the pitch.

“We only planted the Bermuda Princess 77 grass six months ago. The roots did not have time to mature properly as the structure of the stadium stumped its growth,” admitted Ahmad Helmi.

“The pitch only got direct sunlight for an hour, which was not enough. That is why we had to use imported “grow” lights and blowers.”

The stadium hosted the Malaysia Cup final on Saturday but barely 20 minutes into the match, parts of the pitch ripped open.

Ahmad Helmi, however, promised MSC would rectify the situation “as soon as possible”.

“We had no success with the initial grass which was seashore marimopaspalum, so we tried Bermuda since it’s more compact. Now, we have to conduct a thorough research on the most suitable grass, taking into account the structure of the stadium,” said Ahmad Helmi.

“The research and possible solutions would be sent to the Sports Ministry before we proceed with the next course of action.

“We want the best quality so we will look at the available options, including the recommended cowgrass and also zoysia matrella which is suitable for our tropical Southeast Asian climate.”

He added: “The stadium will be closed for at least three months to conduct our research and upgrading facilities. But the pitch has a validity period, so the assigned contractors will continue their maintenance works while we come up with a solution.”