The third Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia is scheduled to be played at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. But as per the reports, it is anticipated that the hosting right may be snatched from the HPCA Stadium Dharamshala. Because this stadium is not fully ready to host the Test match after a new drainage system has been installed. Now BCCI is searching for new ground for the third test match against the Australians.
BCCI has already shortlisted some grounds like Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Pune, and Indore, where this match can be played. According to media reports, a BCCI team will soon inspect the ground and decide on hosting the third Test match.
The last time the Indian team played at the Dharamshala ground was in February last year. Two T20 matches against Sri Lanka were played on this ground. After this, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association decided to install a new drainage system in the ground. Because of this, the entire field was excavated.
This work has been completed, but the grass has not come properly in the field. The grass is yet to come in many places. The amount of sand in the soil of this plain is high. Dense grass will be required to host the Test match in such a situation. The match can be held at another stadium if this does not happen.
The officials of the BCCI inspected the ground on 3rd February, but another inspection is to be done later this week, after which a final decision will be taken. The investigation team will decide whether the outfield is safe for players and ready to host the five-day Test match.
However, the Indian team won the first test match by 132 runs and innings, and now the host is leading the series by 1-0. The second match of the current series of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is to be held in Delhi. The fourth test will be held in Ahmedabad from 9th March to 13.
