Both teams flew from Ranchi to Raipur on the same chartered flight on Monday, drawing huge crowds at the airport eager to catch a glimpse of Rohit Sharma and Kohli.
Practice Schedule
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South Africa: 1:30 PM onwards
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India: 5:30 PM onwards
Spectators will not be allowed during practice sessions; only BCCI cardholders will get entry. Thirty local players have been shortlisted to bowl in the nets to the Indian and South African squads.
Security & Ticketing Measures
Over 2,000 police personnel earlier deployed for the PM’s DGP–IGP Conference have now been assigned for match security.
Two people were arrested on 30 November for selling tickets illegally at inflated prices.
Ticket Rush
The first phase of ticket sales saw 16,000 tickets sold out in just 15 minutes. Students lined up from as early as 4 AM for reserved seats, leading to overcrowding, barricade breaches, and mild police intervention.
Physical ticket collection is available until 2 December. Additional counters near Nava Raipur railway station are still awaiting approval.
Parking & Traffic Arrangements
With over 40,000 spectators expected:
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Four major parking zones have been marked within 500–700 meters of the stadium.
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Combined capacity: 20,000+ vehicles
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Pavilion parking reserved for 60 VVIP vehicles only
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A separate secured route has been designated for players, officials, and VVIP movement.
Special Facilities
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Free drinking water: 22 large water filters installed
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Mandatory display of food-price charts to prevent overcharging
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Free entry and transport for disabled athletes on account of World Disability Day (3 December)
Technology & Broadcast Setup
For the first time, the Raipur stadium will feature a Spider Cam, along with 40 ultra-HD cameras around the ground. Advertisement boards are being installed across the boundary line.
Anti–Black Marketing Rules
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One ID can purchase a maximum of four tickets
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Around 46,000 tickets will be available for sale in total
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Strict frisking and security checks as per CSCS and BCCI guidelines
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No outside food, alcoholic beverages, flags/signage with commercial logos allowed inside the stadium
Stadium’s International Record
Raipur has hosted two international matches so far:
Team Updates
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KL Rahul will lead India in the absence of injured Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Hardik Pandya.
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Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have been rested.
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T20 squad for the 9 December series is yet to be announced.
High Excitement Among Fans
Massive crowds are expected as fans look forward to watching Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and other stars in action. Around 70% of seats remain available for Phase 2 bookings.
