Mohali: The first Test match between India and Sri Lanka, starting on Friday, will be played in the presence of spectators. This will be the 100th Test match of star batsman Virat Kohli. Cricket fans can witness the historic moment of Kohli playing his 100th Test match, Cricket Board of India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah said in a statement on Tuesday.
“The first Test match between India and Sri Lanka to be held at the Punjab Cricket Stadium in Mohali will not be played in an empty stadium,” Shah said in the statement. He said, “The state cricket association has taken the decision to allow spectators to the stadium and it is based on various factors in the present circumstances. I have spoken to the PCA office bearers and they have confirmed that cricket fans will be able to witness the historic moment of Virat Kohli’s 100th Test match.”
The BCCI secretary said that even though the recent limited overs series against West Indies was played without spectators, spectators were allowed after the decline in the cases of COVID-19. He said, “I am really excited about Virat Kohli’s 100th Test match and wish our champion cricketer all the best. ,
The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) confirmed that spectators have been allowed for the Test match. PCA treasurer RP Cinola told PTI, “BCCI has asked us to allow 50 percent spectators of the stadium’s capacity during the upcoming Test match.” Earlier this match was decided to be held in empty stadium without spectators.