Barabati Stadium in Cuttack will debut a red-soil wicket for the forthcoming India–South Africa T20 International on December 9, following an inspection by BCCI East Zone chief pitch curator Ashish Bhowmick on Wednesday.
According to The Times of India article, the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) had prepared two tracks, one created from red soil imported from Maharashtra and another from traditional black soil brought from Kalahandi.

What Can We Expect from the Red-Soil Pitch?
Bhowmick approved the red-soil pitch after comparing the two surfaces, pointing out that it promised a livelier match with improved pace, bounce, and carry, particularly in winter and under lights.This marks the first occurrence of a red-soil surface being used at Barabati Stadium, which has largely depended on black-soil wickets over the years. According to officials, the change may provide a new level of competition to games held there.
The BCCI curator evaluated the pitch's moisture retention, hardness, and anticipated performance throughout the game. He also looked over the outfield, which he apparently thought was appropriate for a fast-paced Twenty20 match.
According to OCA secretary Sanjay Behera, the choice is in line with the organization's goal of providing a top-notch playing field.

In the meantime, as preparations go into match mode ahead of the major event, ticket sales for affiliated units and district sports associations started at the OCA headquarters on Wednesday.

The first game in the five-game Twenty20 International series between India and South Africa will take place at Barabati Stadium. The other matches are set for December 11, 14, 17, and 19 in Mullanpur, Dharamsala, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad.
The historic arena is getting ready to host thousands of spectators for a high-stakes match beneath the winter sky, with the surface finalized and preparations under way.