India vs England: BCCI approves 50% crowd for second Test at Chepauk

In the wake of COVID-19, the cricketing action got staged behind closed doors on various occasions. Even the fancy T20 league, IPL, also took place in UAE without the presence of the crowd. However, in the latest turn of events, BCCI has given nod to allow 50% crowd at MA Chidambaram Stadium during India’s second Test against England to be played from 13th February. However, the first Test will still be played behind closed doors.

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) was given a nod by BCCI to allow 50% of the stadium capacity during the second Test. It means that cricketers can look forwards to all the enthusiasm and cheering from fans right from the second game. However, TNCA officials have stated that they are still waiting for the official confirmation on the same matter.

“The BCCI has communicated to us that fans can be allowed for the second Test. We are just waiting for official confirmation. The first Test will be played behind closed doors. It was too late to make arrangements for the first Test,” TNCA secretary RS Ramasaamy told TOI.

Earlier it was stated that fans would not be given entry into the stadium owing to COVID-19 situations in the nation, but then, the sports ministry gave orders to allow full capacity into the stadiums for outdoor games. However, the Tamil Nadu government revised its guidelines and decided to stick with only 50% of the crowd inside the stands.

Around 15,00 tickets to go for sale for India vs England 2nd Test

With the new I, J, and K stands getting the nod to accommodate the public last year, the total capacity of Chepauk stadium is around 38,000. As per the TNCA secretary, around 12,000-15,000 tickets can be up for sale, and seats that are near to pavilion area or terrace enclosure will not be sold as they are in proximity to the dressing room of cricketers.

“We will not have any seating in the pavilion and terrace stands to ensure that nobody comes close to the players’ area,” Ramasaamy added.

The first Test is all set to be played on the same venue from 5th- February, while the second Test will get in action on February-13.