Saurashtra Cricket Association makes identity proof mandatory for Rajkot ODI

South Africa has won the recently concluded T20 series comfortably

Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) has made it mandatory to carry valid identity cards for spectators, who want to buy tickets for the One day International match between India and South Africa in Rajkot on 18th October.

The third ODI of the five-match series will be played at SCA stadium in Khandheri on the outskirts of the city.

Media manager of the SCA Mr Himanshu Shah said that id cards have to be provided, while buying tickets for the match. “It will also be valid for people who have bought tickets online. They have to show their id proof before entering the stadium,” he said.

He confirmed that it has been decided by police department that spectators should provide identity proof while purchasing tickets.

Gujarat Chief Minister Ananiben Patel has given her confirmation to SCA, that she will be present for the post-match ceremony. Patel quota leader Hardik Patel had earlier stated that ‘Patels’ would attend the match in large number in Rajkot to raise the reservation demand during the third ODI between India and South Africa.

In order to stop any kind of disruption by them during the match, the SCA wants to not sell more than one ticket to one person. According to the new rules, one person can buy only one ticket. Selling of tickets is expected to start from October 12.

The Indian team needs to bounce back after a dismal performance in the recently concluded T20 matches which South Africa has won comfortably.

India's middle-order has been dismal in both matches, first squandering a strong start in Dharamsala and then completely collapsing in Cuttack. The captain has looked uninspired so far and, given the impact he can have on his charges, if he ups his game, the rest may follow. There has been a lot of controversy over the team selection and the batting order as well with experts advising Dhoni to bat up the order.

South Africa's seamers have adapted well so far. Kagiso Rabada, Kyle Abott and Albie Morkel, who has returned to the highest level of cricket after 18 months in Cuttack were promising.

Cuttack witnessed a day of shame for Indian cricket both inside and outside the field. With bottles flying in from the stands play had to be stopped for a brief period. There was a row of criricisms coming in from ex-cricketers for the unruly behavior of the Cuttack crowd . The SCA wants to take all possible measure so that something similar doesn’t happen during the match.