Argus News - Four Held in Cuttack for Black-Marketing T20 Match Tickets Ahead of India–SA Game

Cuttack, Dec 7: Cops from Badambadi and Darghabazar police stations in Cuttack have arrested four persons on charges of black-marketing match tickets and passes ahead of the India–South Africa T20 International scheduled at Barabati Stadium on December 9.

According to police, the accused were selling tickets and passes at prices higher than the authorised rate within the jurisdiction of the two police stations. A total of 21 tickets and passes were seized from their possession. Cases under relevant sections have been registered, and further verification is underway.

The arrests come as security and logistical preparations intensify for the high-profile fixture, which is expected to attract more than 45,000 spectators. On Sunday evening, Hardik Pandya was the only Indian player to attend net practice. Both teams will train at Barabati Stadium on Monday as they prepare for the opening match of the series.

For the first time, Barabati will host play on a red-soil pitch prepared to international standards. Additional red-soil practice strips have been laid out near the clock tower area to help players adapt to match conditions.

Players from both sides, including South African team members arriving in batches, are staying at Mayfair Hotel under a comprehensive security arrangement. The Bhubaneswar Police Commissioner recently briefed officers and support staff on match-day protocols, emphasising crowd management, player movement, and emergency coordination.

To ensure smooth conduct of the event, authorities have deployed 50 police platoons and more than 300 officers across the stadium and adjoining areas. A dedicated traffic plan is in place to facilitate movement of teams, officials, and spectators.

Also Read: Hardik Pandya Trains Solo as India, South Africa Set for Nets on Monday

The T20 series marks the return of Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill to India’s squad following injury recoveries, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the side. Nitish Reddy is the only change from the squad that faced Australia.