The rain played spoilsport in India’s first One Day International (ODI) at Perth. The match was finally completed in 26 overs each due to continuous rain throughout India’s innings.

So, in a bid to protect the pitch from the interruption of rain at Adelaide Oval for the 2nd ODI, the curator has been using Heat Lamp 48 hours before the match on Thursday to dry the pitch.

According to reports from Australian media, the pitch curator in Adelaide deployed heat lamps on the centre wicket to dry them as there is a 99% chance of rain through Tuesday night.

In the subcontinent, many have witnessed hairdryers, wood-fire, pedestal fans and even helicopter to dry pitches. But in Australia and England, the stadium authorities deploy modern measures. Heat lamps are nothing but high wattage bulbs that generate more heat than traditional light-bulbs and LED lights. These lamps emit infrared radiation to generate heat, which is directed towards the wet patches on the pitch. As a result, it evaporates the moisture on the soil and grass.

Heat lamps are used in various purposes, including bathrooms and animal farms, to help speed up the drying process. Pitch curators across the world also turn to an array of heat lamps to quickly dry outfields and pitches.

The best pitch of the lot is traditionally expected at the Adelaide Oval. The pitch generally offers a flat surface with even bounce. However, for the 2nd ODI, it could be a little different. With a lot of rainfall predicted on Monday and Tuesday, the pitch will remain under covers. Although, the forecast for Thursday is great with lot of sunlight, the fact that the pitch would remain under cover for at least 48 hours before the match day, there will be moisture.

Australia’s fast bowlers, such as Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Ellis, could benefit if India bat first because moisture in the pitch may create seam movement, making batting challenging early on. As heat lamps continue to dry the surface during the day and sunlight increases, the pitch is expected to lose moisture, making conditions easier for batters later in the match.

With India down 0-1 in the three-match series, it’s a do-or-die for India to restore parity. India have not won an ODI series in Australia since 2019.