BCCI Mulls Relocating India-South Africa Test Match Due to Delhi Pollution

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating moving the first Test match between India and South Africa, originally slated for New Delhi in November. Concerns over pollution levels in the capital have prompted this consideration, according to recent reports from Indian media.

Sources indicate that the BCCI is considering shifting the match to Eden Gardens in Kolkata. In a related adjustment, the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi is now expected to host the second Test between India and West Indies, scheduled from October 10 to 14. This rescheduling aims to shield players from the potentially adverse effects of poor air quality anticipated in Delhi during November.

“The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi will now stage the second Test between India and West Indies from October 10-14, a match initially planned for Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Kolkata will, in turn, host the first Test between India and South Africa from November 14-18,” a source within the BCCI stated.

“This adjustment is a proactive measure to mitigate the impact of possible elevated pollution levels on the players’ health. The BCCI places the highest importance on the welfare and health of its players. An official announcement confirming these changes is expected in the coming days.”

This decision follows criticism directed at the cricket board for initially scheduling a Test match in New Delhi during November, a period notorious for problematic air pollution in recent years.

Notably, deteriorating air quality in Delhi has caused disruptions to several cricket matches in the past few years.

  • In November 2016, two Ranji Trophy matches were abandoned, and players reported issues such as headaches and eye irritation.
  • In December of the following year, Sri Lankan players resorted to wearing face masks while fielding during a Test match due to the hazardous air quality.