EWS, government schools' kids can see India-SA test for free: HC

Economically weaker sections and government schoolchildren can see the forthcoming cricket test between India and South Africa from December 3 for free, the Delhi High Court said on Tuesday.

An order from the division bench of Justice B.D. Ahmed and Justice V.K. Rao came after the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) agreed to bear the cost of the season tickets fixed at Rs.50 per child.

The court was hearing a plea of Justice Mukul Mudgal, who is overseeing the affairs of the upcoming Test.

Justice Mudgal, in his application, said that during the course of discussions with the president, treasurer and other office-bearers of DDCA, it was noticed that many stands remained vacant during the test matches.

"No objection by any party. Schoolchildren permitted to witness the cricket match. We request Justice Mudgal to ensure children from economically weaker sections and those studying in government schools in Delhi should be provided with this facility. We leave it to his discretion," the bench said.

The fourth and final test in the ongoing India-South Africa series would be held at Ferozeshah Kotla stadium from December 3 to December 7.

India currently leads the series 1-0 after winning the first match in Mohali. The second game at Bengaluru was washed out by rain whereas the third test match would be held in Nagpur from November 25.

The Delhi High Court last Wednesday allowed DDCA to hold the fourth Test at Ferozeshah Kotla stadium as scheduled and directed the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) to issue a provisional occupancy certificate to the sports body.