New Delhi: The referee responsible for allowing a disputed goal during an Indian Super League play-off match, which led to the Kerala Blasters FC coach making the controversial decision to leave the field, will not be officiating in the upcoming Super Cup matches in Kerala this April. Sports journalist Marcus Mergulhao shared this news on Twitter.

Crystal John refereed the crucial match between Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC on March 3. In this match, Sunil Chhetri scored a goal in extra time. The Blasters claimed that the goal was unfair, as the referee indicated a regular kick but allowed Chhetri to take a quick free kick. The team was not prepared and the whistle had not been blown, it was argued. In protest, the Blasters players walked off the field without completing the match. Chhetri said he asked for a quick kick and the referee permitted it.

Following the controversy, strict action was taken against Kerala Blasters. It appears that Crystal John's exclusion from the Super Cup matches is a result of the controversy.

The matches will take place at the EMS Stadium in Kozhikode and the Mayyanad Stadium in Mancheri, with Kerala Blasters set to participate.