Cuttack: A day-night cricket contest during the winter months in India is often influenced by external factors, and not just by the players’ skills.
It’s the dew factor, which often decides the outcome of the match.
The toss becomes extremely crucial, as the captain who wins it more often than not decides to bowl first. The reason is that because of dew setting in on the outfield after sunset, the ball gets wet and bowlers struggle to grip it properly. The problems faced by bowlers makes it a huge advantage for the team batting second, which can chase down big totals.
The scenario at Barabati Stadium, which is gearing up to host the first T20 International between India and South Africa on December 9, will be no different.
To negate the dew factor, the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) has acquired a special anti-dew chemical from abroad.
According to OCA’s chief pitch curator Dr Anjan Kumar Khuntia, the special chemical will be sprayed on the outfield grass from Sunday until match day (Tuesday).
The special chemical will help in preventing, or minimising dew from accumulating on the grass, thereby ensuring a smooth and drying surface for the fielding side.
Dozens of field staff are working with the curator to ensure that the outfield is in top condition for the high-profile match.
Super soppers will be used during the innings break to remove excess moisture, while the outfield barriers will be cleaned using dry ropes to prevent slipping hazards.
A full house of over 40,000 people are expected at the Barabati to witness Suryakumar Yadav’s boys take on the Proteas, led by Aiden Markram.
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