The third Test of the ongoing series between India and Australia was scheduled to be played in Dharamsala from March 1 to 5.
However, as per latest reports, the Test match is all set to be shifted to another venue as the relaid outfield is not match ready.
It is understood that BCCI curator Taposh Chatterjee visited the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium to inspect the pitch and the outfield.
He will submit his report to the top brass of the BCCI for a final call.
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala is one of the most scenic stadiums in the world.
The only Test match hosted at the venue was during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy’s 2016–17 season. India clinched the game in four days and won the series 2-1.
The twin T20 matches between India and Sri Lanka last February were the last international cricket games to be held at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.
Due to the association’s decision to repair the outfield and install a new drainage system, there hasn’t been any cricket played at the venue since then.
It is also affirmed that the outfield is still not ready and is dotted with barren spots where the grass cover has not yet established itself.
Bengaluru and Visakhapatnam are among the venues where the third Test can be shifted to.
“There are certain BCCI parameters that one needs to fit in in order to host the match. No competitive game has been played on this ground and also the outfield isn’t ready,” a senior BCCI source said.
While 16 days are left for the match to begin, weather in Dharamsala can also play spoilsport as back-to-back international games there were washouts.
The outfield has bald areas and forecast of rain in next few days could halt the work under progress.
“We have told that given a chance we would like to host the game but it’s up to the BCCI to decide. The curator’s report would be based on parameters,” a HPCA source privy to development said.
A Test in Dharamsala is one of the most awaited matches as that is considered to be a track conducive for pacers and also a destination ideal for cricket tourism.
A BCCI team has also inspected the venue few weeks back.
The likely shifting of the venue out of Dharamsala will disappoint thousands of fans longing for a world class Test match there.
