PCA stadium to host one Test, one T20I

Deepankar Sharda

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, September 28

The newly built Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium at Mullanpur may have to wait little longer to host its first international match as the BCCI has chosen the IS Bindra PCA Stadium in Mohali for hosting a Test and a T20 International during Sri Lanka’s tour of India early next year. Sri Lankan team is scheduled to play two Tests and three T20Is during their visit to India.

The Test match at Mohali is scheduled to be held from March 5 to 9, while the T20I will be played on March 13.

“Yes, we have received the BCCI’s confirmation on hosting the matches. As of now, the BCCI has allotted matches to the existing PCA IS Bindra Stadium,” said a PCA spokesperson.

The 40,000 capacity stadium at Mullanpur has already hosted a couple of preparatory camps and a number of domestic matches.

“The stadium is ready to host international matches. However, necessary formalities are yet to be completed by the BCCI. The local authorities are keen on getting the permission for hosting international matches. So, there’s still a possibility that the new stadium may host the international matches during the Sri Lanka’s tour,” said an official.

IS Bindra PCA stadium has so far hosted 13 Tests, 25 ODIs and 5 T20Is.

“This is good news for the region. The last international match in Mohali was conducted in September 2019. The enthusiasm for international cricket will return with the Sri Lankan series,” said a senior coach.

“It’s almost after two years that the stadium is scheduled to host international matches. This will be exciting for young cricketers as well as cricket lovers,” said Arun, a former cricketer.