Uppal T20 Ticket Row: Police Crack Down on Black Marketing

The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal is gearing up for the India–West Indies T20 international match, but ticket sales have triggered widespread criticism among cricket fans. Several fans expressed disappointment after tickets on the Ticket Genie app reportedly showed as sold out within minutes of becoming available. Questions were raised over transparency in ticket allocation and the Hyderabad Cricket Association’s arrangements. The HCA stated that ticket prices ranged from ₹750 to ₹20,000. It said the booking system limits each person to four tickets and that mobile-to-mobile transfers were introduced to curb black marketing. According to the association, 2,500 tickets were allotted to school students and 250 to the armed forces.

Meanwhile, Goshamahal police arrested four people for allegedly selling complimentary tickets for the match on the black market. Acting on a tip-off, police raided SO Mall in Begum Bazaar and detained two suspects for selling tickets marked “Not for Sale.” Based on information obtained from them, two more people were arrested, and all four were remanded. Police seized 11 tickets, five mobile phones, Dandiya passes, a two-wheeler and ₹5,000 in cash. Authorities have intensified surveillance to prevent fake tickets and fraudulent booking links. More than 2,200 police personnel, CCTV cameras, drones and special teams are expected to oversee security arrangements. The RTC will also operate 60 special buses to help spectators reach the stadium.