The Indian cricket team is gearing up to return to action after an extended break, facing Bangladesh in a two-match Test series followed by a three-match T20I series. However, the excitement surrounding the first T20 International, scheduled for October 6, in Gwalior is now overshadowed by potential rain threats that could force a venue change.
Venue Change and Rain Concerns
Earlier this year, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to move the venue for the first T20I from the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala to Gwalior due to ongoing renovation work. Now, with rain forecasted in the region, the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) is keeping its options open for a possible shift in location.
A source close to the developments revealed in an exclusive conversation with Sports Tak, “It is raining in the whole MP, not just in Gwalior. We don’t know what the situation will be in October, but we are hoping that at the start of October, no rain should come as we get ready for this match. We have sent tickets to print and have arranged everything for this match.”
MPCA’s Preparedness
Despite the uncertainty, the MPCA remains optimistic about hosting the match. The source further stated, “As of now, there’s time in hand; it would be too early to comment on this, but yes, if required, we have options open to shift the game if BCCI says so. This game has already been shifted from Dharamsala to us. We don’t want to leave out the game.”
The MPCA is closely monitoring the weather conditions and is prepared to act swiftly if necessary. “See, till September end, there’s a forecast of rain, but in October, there’s no rain as of now, so I don’t think there will be any issue. The problem if rain comes will be out of the stadium parking and other areas. We have a good drainage system here as of now, and we are progressing as per plan,” the source added.
The first T20I against Bangladesh is part of a series that follows a two-match Test series, with the first Test scheduled to take place from September 19 to September 23 in Chennai. The second Test will be held in Kanpur from September 27 to October 1. Following the Tests, the T20I series will commence, with the first match set for October 6.
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