IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Face masks and social distancing mandatory for spectators

Fans are set to return to an international stadium in India for the first time after Covid-19 pandemic brought the nation and the wrold to a standstill. The second Test match between India and England starts in Chennai from February 13 will see 50 per cent of the crowd capacity at Chepauk to be allowed in the stadium. The ongoing match at the same venue is being played behind closed doors but the tickets for the second Test were up for grab from 10 AM on Monday.

Tamil Nadu Cricket Assocation (TNCA) is also set to open the disputed I, J and K stands for the first time since 2012.

TNCA on Monday in its latest media release said that wearing masks while entering the stadia and maintaining social distancing within the premises will be mandatory for the fans. The association also warned the spectators against getting involved in racist activities.

"Strict disciplinary action will be initiated by authorities against all persons violating covid & security protocols,” said the released signed by secretary RS Ramasaamy.

Notably, India cricketers including Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah were subjected to racial abuse during the third Test against Australia in Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The matter was reported by the Indian team and Cricket Australia (CA) is still investigating to find the perpetrators.

Following are the guidelines issued by the TNCA for the fans attending the second Test

# Face mask, covering mouth and nose, is mandatory for entry into the



stadium and maintain social distancing within the stadium premises at all times.

# Persons showing any symptoms of COVID 19 like Fever, Cough, Cold etc will be denied entry into the stadium.

# Prohibited items include: Bags, jholas, brief cases, radios, laser pointers, digital diaries, laptops, computers, tape recorders, recording devices, binoculars, remote controlled devices, inflammable material, musical instruments, speakers, professional / video cameras, crackers, food and beverage, bottles or any item that could be used as a weapon, cause damage / injury and / or compromise public safety and security.

# Promotional / commercial material, ambush marketing in any form, banners & flags displaying patented commercial logos, which in the Association / Organizer view may conflict with the rights of any Official Sponsor of the match will not be allowed into the stadium.

# Smoking, alcohol and Illegal substances such as narcotics is prohibited.

# Spectators are cautioned not to indulge or display anti- racist, religious or political activities, foul / abusive / unruly language inside the stadium, that could disturb the game and such persons will be dealt with in accordance to law.

# Spectators are not to deposit / handover any of their belongings with any Security Guard / Officials or other Personnel at the gates.

# Spectators are advised not to dishonour National Flags or National symbols and those found to do so will be handed over to the Police.