The excitement of international cricket is back in Rajkot as India-A and South Africa-A teams have arrived in the city for their much-anticipated three-match ODI series. The matches will be held at the Niranjan Shah Cricket Stadium, marking another milestone for Rajkot as a key venue for emerging international-level competitions.
According to officials, both teams landed in Rajkot on Monday evening. The series will begin on November 13, followed by the second game on November 16 — both day-night encounters, while the final ODI on November 19 will be a day game. Cricket fans are in for a treat, as entry to all matches will be absolutely free.
Day-Night Matches and Full Schedule
The first two ODIs between India-A and South Africa-A will begin at 1:30 PM, while the third and final match — a day fixture — will start at 9:00 AM. Each match will feature two sessions of 50 overs, lasting around three and a half hours each, separated by a 40-minute break.
With free entry and world-class players on display, Rajkot is expected to witness an electrifying atmosphere filled with passionate fans and non-stop cricketing action. The stadium is already being prepared to accommodate large crowds as excitement builds across the region.
Star Players to Feature in the Series
For the first time, Rajkot’s cricket lovers will see emerging Indian stars such as Tilak Varma, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Riyan Parag, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna showcasing their talent on the local pitch. These players, many of whom have been standout performers in the IPL and domestic tournaments, are expected to add explosive energy to Team India-A’s performance.
Meanwhile, South Africa-A has also arrived with a strong squad featuring powerful hitters and promising bowlers. With both teams loaded with next-generation talent, this series promises to be a thrilling contest of skill, power, and strategy.
Practice Sessions and Preparations
Both teams will hold their net practice sessions on Tuesday, fine-tuning their game plans ahead of the opening clash. The players are staying at Hotel Sayaji in Rajkot, where top-level facilities and security arrangements have been made for the international guests.
Cricket enthusiasts in Rajkot are eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars during practice and match days. Local authorities and the Saurashtra Cricket Association have also ensured smooth arrangements, including crowd management, security, and hospitality for fans.
Also read: Cricket Fever to Grip Saurashtra: India-A and South Africa-A to Clash in Rajkot for Three ODIs
Growing Cricket Craze in Rajkot
Following India’s recent T20 series victory over Australia and the women’s team’s World Cup triumph, the passion for cricket has reignited across the country. Now, with India-A and South Africa-A clashing in Rajkot, the cricket fever is expected to reach new heights.
This ODI series will also serve as a curtain-raiser for Rajkot’s upcoming T20 match against New Zealand in January, keeping the city buzzing with back-to-back cricket action. Local fans are calling this November’s cricket season a “festival of boundaries and sixes.”
Conclusion
As India-A and South Africa-A prepare to face off under the Rajkot lights, expectations are sky-high for an exciting display of young talent and future stars of international cricket. With free fan entry, day-night thrillers, and top-notch players, the city is all set to experience a memorable cricket spectacle.
Cricket lovers can look forward to a series filled with intensity, entertainment, and the unmistakable energy that only cricket in India can deliver.
