Barabati Stadium all set for India–South Africa T20, red-soil pitch promises high scores

With just two days left for the high-voltage India–South Africa T20 clash at Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium, preparations at the iconic venue have reached the final stretch. Anticipation among cricket fans is running high as the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) intensifies its groundwork to ensure a smooth and competitive match experience.

According to officials, the main pitch—prepared with red soil—is almost ready, and the outfield work is nearing completion. Two additional practice pitches have also been set up to facilitate pre-match training sessions for both teams. The red-soil surface, known for offering good bounce and pace initially before assisting spinners later, is expected to create a balanced contest between bat and ball.

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Speaking exclusively to OTV, OCA’s Chief Pitch Curator, Dr. Anjan Khuntia, shared insights into the preparations. “Barabati pitch preparation is in its final stage. The outfield is also almost completed. I’m hopeful that it will be a good match with good scores and a strong fight between both sides,” he said.

He further added, “The match will be played on red soil. We are giving the finishing touches accordingly, with the expectation that it will turn out to be a high-scoring encounter.”

With the stadium decked up and the pitch set to offer quality cricketing conditions, fans can look forward to an exciting battle between India and South Africa as Barabati readies itself to host yet another thrilling international fixture.