How prepared is Hyderabad?

How smooth will be the conduct of the one-off Test between Bangladesh and India scheduled to start on February 9 at the Rajiv Gandhi stadidm in southern Indian city of Hyderabad?

The question is being discussed in the corridors of cricket in Hyderabad as there is no recognised body governing the Hyderabad Cricket Association. Elections to HCA had been held but the results have not been declared due to a court order. Besides, there is fund shortage facing HCA which is the local host of the Test match.

But Ratnakar Shetty, the general manager (game development) of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), yesterday assured cricket fans that the Test would be conducted smoothly.

Shetty said that he has been entrusted by the Board with the responsibility of ensuring smooth conduct of the Test keeping in mind the uncertainty in HCA. "Basically [I have been entrusted with the responsibility] to coordinate the smooth conduct of the Test match," Shetty told media when asked about the reason for this specific appointment.

The decision was taken by BCCI CEO Rahul Johri, empowering Shetty to even, if needed, take the Test out of Hyderabad.

BCCI's problems were compounded by the lack of funds at HCA which has already shot off a letter to BCCI, seeking grants. In the letter sent a few weeks ago, the HCA had stated that it would struggle to hold the game if funds were not sanctioned.