The first Test of the three-match series between South Africa and India will take place at on 26 December and as per reports, it is likely to be played without fans.
According to reports in the Afrikaans language weekly newspaper 'Rapport', it is learned that Cricket South Africa (CSA) is not selling tickets given the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron.
As per the restrictions implemented by the government, 2000 fans are allowed inside the stadium but only a few suite holders and delegates will be allowed to watch the match.
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There’s also no confirmation if spectators will be allowed for the next two Tests or not. As of now, organisers are waiting to see if there are any changes to government regulations regarding COVID-19.
Ticket sales haven't started for the second Test that will begin on 3rd January at the Wanderers either. The official Twitter account of the stadium confirmed about the same, saying that they will make future announcements in due course.
"Please note, no announcement has been made regarding ticket sales for the upcoming Test match at the #ImperialWanderers Stadium between South Africa and India. At this point, it isn't clear if fans will be allowed. We will make further announcements in due course,” Imperial Wanderers Stadium Tweeted.
The Indian squad for the Test series has reached South Africa and have started to begin their preparations. The visitors are staying in a resort (Irene Lodge) which is entirely booked for them by CSA to ensure that a strict bio-bubble is maintained throughout the series.
The third and final Test of the series will take place in Cape Town from January 11 to 15.
After that, both teams will lock horns in three-match ODI series, which will be played from 19th January to 23rd January.
(PTI inputs)
