After the central government's fresh COVID-19 guidelines, the BCCI and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) have decided to allow 50 per cent spectators in the second India-England Test, slated to be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Speaking to PTI, a top TNCA official confirmed the recent development, stating that the move was cleared in a meeting between TNCA and BCCI officials.
"We discussed the issue of allowing spectators for the second India vs England Test following fresh COVID-19 guidelines by the Central government permitting crowds at sporting venues and also the state government's SOPs given on Sunday," the TNCA official said.
"It has been decided by the BCCI and TNCA to allow 50 per cent spectators for the second Test by following all safety protocols."
Initially, the BCCI and TNCA had a dialogue over the same before deciding that the first two Tests would be conducted closed doors at Chepauk.
However, the fresh home ministry guidelines on easing of restrictions on public movement changed the scenario.
The official also mentioned that media would be allowed to cover both the Tests from the press box at the stadium. However, press conferences would still be held virtually.
The MA Chidambaram stadium has a capacity of 50,000. The first Test is due to start on February 5 while the second Test is scheduled to begin on February 13.
According to the official, there was little time to allow entry of spectators for the Test series opener.
"There is little time to make arrangements for spectators entry for the first Test so the crowd cannot be allowed. Though the gap between the two Tests is only three days, we are confident that arrangements can be made for (50 per cent) fans in second Test keeping the safety norms in mind," he remarked.
Ahmedabad’s Sardar Patel Stadium is due to host the last two Tests and the crowd's entry is already permitted in that venue.
(With PTI inputs)
