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New Delhi, April 10: It seemed like a case of bad planning when the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) announced that a friendly Twenty20 match between Daniel Vettori XI and Virender Sehwag XI would be held on April 15 for the inauguration of the new floodlights at the Ferozeshah Kotla. The date clashes with the last day of the third Test in Kanpur between India and South Africa, of which Sehwag will be a part.

As it turned out, however, it was a case of too much planning in the run-up to the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Minutes after the Test is scheduled to get over, Sehwag and Ishant Sharma will fly in a chartered plane rented by DDCA for the T20 match which is to start at 7 pm. Stumps will be drawn in the Test at 4.30 pm, though play has often been extended by an hour to complete the mandatory 90 overs.

While Sehwag is expected to immediately discard his white flannels and jump into his new Delhi Daredevils colours, Ishant — who is representing Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL — will be felicitated.

“Yes, we are aware that the Test match is finishing on the same day, if it doesn’t get over in three or four days,” Sunil Dev, the DDCA’s sports secretary, told The Indian Express. “The DDCA is hiring a chartered plane to fly Sehwag and Ishant straight after the match. The aircraft will be at Kanpur from 3.30 pm and will pick them. Hopefully, Sehwag will be able to arrive in time and play the match.”

Sneh Bansal, the Delhi cricket association’s general secretary adds: “It’s a DDCA function and that’s why we are flying in the players. The Kotla renovation is complete, this is its 75th year, and the lights are ready for testing. We will be also be honouring our players and officials, so we’re ensuring that everything happens in a grand manner.”

Sehwag’s team will include former Australian paceman and Daredevils team mate Glenn McGrath while New Zealander Vettori will lead Sri Lankan fast-bowler Farveez Maharoof.