Cuttack, Jun 19: The Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) is considering a major shift in its ticketing strategy for the upcoming T20 International between India and South Africa, scheduled to be held at the iconic Barabati Stadium on December 9.

In a bid to streamline crowd management and avoid past chaos at offline counters, the OCA is exploring the possibility of selling tickets exclusively online.

OCA Secretary Sanjay Behera confirmed that the proposal will be discussed and finalized during the association’s upcoming General Body Meeting. “Many other state cricket associations have already adopted online ticketing. We are seriously considering it for the Barabati match as well,” he said.

The move comes in response to previous instances of disorder and overcrowding at offline ticket counters during high-profile matches. The OCA believes that shifting to a digital platform could help ensure smoother operations and better crowd control.

Behera added that the final decision will be taken based on consensus among committee members. If approved, this will mark a significant change in how cricket fans in Odisha access match tickets.

Meanwhile, preparations for the high-voltage India-South Africa clash are already underway. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has finalized the fixture, and the OCA has begun logistical planning to host the opening match of the T20 series.

Barabati Stadium, known for its electrifying atmosphere, last hosted an international T20 in 2022 – also between India and South Africa. With the return of top-tier cricket, fans are eagerly awaiting ticket announcements and match-day arrangements.

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