Bhubaneswar: The dew factor might not play a big role during the opening game of the five-match T20 series between India and South Africa at Barabati Stadium in Odisha’s Cuttack city on Tuesday, according to senior meteorologist Umasankar Das.
Das attributed this to light cloud formation, caused by westerly winds, over coastal Odisha. “Due to light cloud cover in the upper atmosphere over coastal Odisha, driven by westerly winds, the air mass will have reduced moisture. This will limit dew formation, and any dew impact is likely to be delayed. As a result, the match is expected to be minimally affected by dew,” he said.
The match is scheduled to begin at 7 pm.
The dew factor often decides the outcome of a day-night cricket contest during the winter months in India. 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 will be no different.
A special anti-dew chemical, procured by Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) from abroad, is being sprayed on the outfield grass at the stadium since Sunday to negate the dew factor.
According to OCA’s chief pitch curator Dr Anjan Kumar Khuntia, 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 also 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 Barabati to witness Suryakumar Yadav’s boys take on the Proteas, led by Aiden Markram.
Teams Departure Time
The South African team will leave for Cuttack at 4:45 PM, followed closely by the Indian team at 4:50 PM, with the convoys moving in a staggered and tightly controlled manner along the 28-km stretch under heavy police presence.
Both teams have been staying at Hotel Mayfair in Bhubaneswar since arriving here on Sunday.
