After a hammering defeat in the first Test, Australia have got another shocker as the only seamer-friendly venue on the list for the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2022-23 might be scrapped for hosting the game. It is being reported that Dharamshala might not host the third Test of the BGT 2022-23 as the venue does not look ready for hosting international matches.
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Notably, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium underwent renovation recently and isn’t deemed ready enough to host international matches. As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already shortlisted a backup venue and an announcement could be made soon. The venues in contention to host the Test include Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Pune and Indore.
Talking about the Dharamshala venue, as per various media reports, the outfield isn’t ready yet. An inspection was carried out earlier this month on February 3 with a second scheduled to be held this weekend. A dense grass cover is needed for the outfield since it’s sand-based and the presence of bald patches means it’s unsafe.
Notably, the Dharamsala stadium has so far hosted just one Test match and is counted among the most picturesque venues. The venue lasted hosted two T20Is between India and Sri Lanka last year in February. Afterwards, the HPCA began the renovation work at the venue which included relaying the outfield and a new drainage system.
Meanwhile, India have taken a lead in the four-match series as they thwarted the Pat Cummins-led team by an inning and 132 runs in the first Test. India bundled Australia for 91 in the second innings to register a thumping victory. Ravindra Jadeja was named the Player of the Match for his seven wickets and match-winning half-century.