Sports/Alive News: Virat Kohli’s much-awaited homecoming to Delhi could be delayed, with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) requesting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to shift the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka to another venue.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, the DDCA has raised concerns over rising pollution levels in the national capital and ongoing renovation work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The association does not want players to face health risks due to poor air quality during the match.
India are scheduled to host Sri Lanka for a three-match ODI series in December. The opening match is scheduled to be played in Delhi on December 13.
Pollution raises concerns
The DDCA has reportedly cited high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Delhi, particularly after Diwali, as one of the reasons for seeking a venue change. The city recorded an AQI of 351 last December, while pollution levels on November 2 were also reported to be in a similar range.
Concerns have also been raised over the condition of players during the 2017 Test between India and Sri Lanka in Delhi, when several visiting players experienced breathing difficulties and some were seen vomiting due to pollution.
BCCI yet to take a decision
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had earlier dismissed reports of a possible venue change, saying no such decision had been taken. However, following the DDCA’s request, the board’s final decision is awaited.
The second ODI is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on December 16, followed by the third match in Ahmedabad on December 19. The DDCA has reportedly sought another international fixture in 2027 in exchange for the Delhi match.
