India VS Australia, 5th ODI at Cuttack - Another washout in making

The fifth one-day encounter between India and Australia almost stands cancelled in view of torrential rains which have rendered the Barabati ground unplayable.

However, if the match is actually called off, the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) would not suffer any financial loss because the it has insured the match for Rs 20 crore.

OCA secretary Ashirbad Behera told The Telegraph that the association had deposited a premium of Rs 7 lakh with the insurance companies for protection against financial loss, owing to cancellation of the match due to bad weather, natural disasters, terrorism-related incidents and injury to spectators.

“We will get Rs 6 crore if the game is completely washed out. The spectators have been insured for Rs 7 crore in case of any unfortunate event and the remaining amount covers stadium property. If the match is cancelled, we will be able to retrieve at least Rs 6 crore,” he said.

Behera said though they were hoping that the match is played, it was highly unlikely. “It has been overcast the entire day. The ground is completely waterlogged and the chances of it drying up are extremely remote. The pitch is safe but the outfield is so wet and slippery that it may cause injury to the fielders. The umpires and match referee, after making the ritual inspection tomorrow afternoon, will take the final decision,” said Behera.

The OCA has decided to refund the entire ticket money to the spectators if a single ball is not bowled. “It is a win-win situation for the OCA. If the match is played, it will get money from the tickets and advertisements. If it is called off, it will get the insurance money,” said an official of an insurance company.

Behera said the entry gates would be opened for the spectators at 11.30am tomorrow. If the match is cancelled, people can expect to get refund of their ticket money from November 8 to 15 between 10am and 5pm at the three ticket counters at Barabati Stadium. Those who have booked tickets online need not go to the counters. They will have their money sent directly to their accounts.

Source : The Telegraph