Post News Network
Cuttack, Oct 2: The Barabati Stadium is all geared up to host the India-South Africa T20 match here October 5. The stadium is getting a vibrant look with the final touches.
Two practice pitches besides the main pitch are ready. “We expect a sporting wicket. It will help the stroke-makers and also assist the fast bowlers as there will be carry in the pitch,” main curator Pankaj Pattnaik informed Friday. The sight screens have also been placed in position and security measures have been implemented.
Teams’ arrival
Both the teams will arrive at Bhubaneswar Saturday. They will arrive by two chartered planes in the evening. Eighty rooms of a city hotel have been booked for the players, officials, umpires and match referees. Two special AC buses have been kept handy for the transportation of players from Bhubaneswar to Cuttack.
Practice
“Both the teams are expected to practice at the Barabati, Sunday evening,” stated OCA secretary Asirbad Behera. “As the match will be played entirely under floodlight, the teams have decided to train under lights only,” he added.
Security
Commissionerate of Police has adopted a three- tier strict security measure for the safety of players and audience. Close circuit cameras and metal detectors will be installed in all the gates of the stadium. Police personnel will also man makeshift watch towers to keep a close watch of the activities around the stadium. Five hundred private security guards will also be engaged on duty.
Remainder tickets
Amidst high demand almost all the tickets have been sold. Remaining 825 tickets (gallery number two, four and seven; corporate gallery) will be up for sale at the counter number one Saturday.
Rain threat
Rain threat to Barabati is nothing new. Two international matches have been called off in the past. There have been slight drizzles since last three days. Friday afternoon also witnessed a little shower. “But the outfield is not at all affected and we are fully prepared for rain this time,” stated Pattnaik. “The outfield is sand-packed to prevent stagnation of water. Two super-soppers have been kept ready for action,” he informed.
