India vs South Africa first ODI likely to be played in empty stadium

India is going to host a three-match ODI series against South Africa starting on the 12th of March. However, the threats of Coronavirus have affected the sale of tickets for the series opener that will be played at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in Dharmsala. And, HPCA functionary has raised his concern over the same ahead of the 1st ODI.

Coronavirus has hit people across the globe and has taken several lives. At the moment, the research is going on in order to put a halt over it. The effects are so massive that several global sporting events have been postponed. Even Karnataka Government has asked BCCI to even dysfunction IPL 2020 until the proper aid is found.

Very few tickets have been sold for the series opener between India and South Africa

The people are well aware of its effects due to which they have taken a step back from going into public events and gatherings. Now the HPCA functionary has said that very few tickets have been sold for the 1st ODI between India and South Africa. He looked a bit concerned about the fact that players might get an emptied stadium which is not good from the perspective of a player and the game, “Hardly two-three corporate boxes have been sold out this time,” HPCA functionary said as quoted by India Today.

Meanwhile, HPCA media in-charge Mohit Sood said that they have made proper provisions to protect the ground from rain. He also added that they are keeping their fingers crossed as the previous game (T20I) between these two teams at this venue also got abandoned due to rain. And, if that happens again then it will be bad news for the fans and players.

“The drainage system is effective to drain out rainwater. Also, we have water soaking machines and a lightweight plastic cover for covering the entire ground. We are keeping our fingers crossed. The last match between India and South Africa was washed out. If this happens again, this venue will be considered jinxed for the Proteas,” Mohit Sood said.

After the series opener both the teams will play two more games that are scheduled to be played in Lucknow and Kolkata.