Bhubaneswar, 2 December (H.S.): Preparations are in full swing at Barabati Stadium ahead of the high-voltage T20 International between India and South Africa scheduled for December 9. East Zone Chief Curator Ashish Bhowmick on Tuesday conducted a thorough inspection of the venue to assess pitch readiness and overall playing conditions.

Bhowmick, accompanied by the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) curator and ground staff, evaluated key parameters such as surface quality, grass cover, hardness, and moisture levels to ensure optimal conditions for the upcoming clash. Sources said that three pitches have been readied, offering flexibility based on weather and team strategy.

Ground personnel were seen carrying out routine maintenance activities, including rolling, watering, and marking boundary lines, as part of the final phase of preparations.

Known for its electrifying crowd atmosphere, Barabati Stadium is expected to witness a full house as cricket enthusiasts from across Odisha gear up for the much-anticipated India–South Africa encounter on December

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda