Published 08:36 IST, October 18th 2019
MS Dhoni set to attend India vs South Africa Ranchi Test?
The last Test between India and South Africa to be played in Ranchi will be a double treat for cricket fans as MS Dhoni will be available to watch the match.
The last Test match between India and South Africa, to be played at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) Stadium in Ranchi on Saturday, October 19 will be a double treat for cricket lovers. Not only will they get to see two top teams go up against each other, but they will also be able to catch a glimpse of former Indian skipper MS Dhoni at the stadium. According to media reports, Dhoni is expected to be at the stadium to cheer the home team. It will indeed be a special occasion for fans as Dhoni, who last played in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, has stayed away from the game.
Reports have stated that the JSCA had extended an invite to the former skipper, who hails from Ranchi, to be present at the match and Dhoni had accepted it. His former coach Keshav Banerjee told a leading media daily that Dhoni would be present on the first day of the Test match. However, the JSCA has not yet confirmed when Dhoni is expected to show up at the stadium. Taking into account MS Dhoni’s popularity among the Indian fans, his presence is sure to draw more fans to the stadium. JSCA sources said that whenever Dhoni is in Ranchi, and there is a match going on, he makes it a point to attend the game.
JSCA’s free passes for the Jawaans
Meanwhile, the cricket association has distributed complimentary tickets to the CRPF jawaans, army and Jharkhand police personnel for the match. Association sources said that the initiative was part of the JSCA honouring the men in uniform for their selfless service to the nation. The association has reportedly given away as many as 5000 free passes. The JSCA has also announced that cricket fans will be allowed to watch the practice sessions as long as they take prior permission and stay behind the marked lines. India has already sealed the three-match series 2-0 against the Proteas with wins in Pune and Vishakhapatnam. Winning the series has consolidated India’s position as the best team in Test cricket.
Updated 10:19 IST, October 18th 2019