Bhubaneswar, May 21 -- Inclement weather and cricket don't blend very well and the drainage system at the iconic Barabati Stadium in the Millenium city has often come under sharp criticism. However, courtesy Odisha Association's (OCA) innovative 'hover cover', pitch and outfield of the stadium will be protected from getting wet in the rain during the T20 international match between hosts India and South Africa on June 12.

A hover cover is a specialised hovercraft used at major cricket grounds to cover and protect the cricket pitch from inclement weather, particularly showers of rain. The hover cover can be stored close to the edge of the cricket field, and when required can be moved over the pitch within minutes, and then removed easily ...