BCCI reveals why Delhi was allotted a Test match in November despite Pollution Concerns every year

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is under fire for scheduling a Test match between India and South Africa in Delhi from November 14 to 18 — a time when the national capital usually battles severe air pollution in the year.

Many have pointed out that pollution levels in Delhi during the month of November have been worse recently, so hosting a Test match during that time was not an ideal choice.

Even during the 2023 ODI World Cup, similar concerns had surfaced before a group match between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh had to cancel its practice due to the poor air quality in Delhi.

Pollution row erupts over India-South Africa Test in Delhi

Despite the backlash, the BCCI stood by its decision, citing its ‘rotation policy’ as the reason. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told The Indian Express that the pollution problem doesn't happen every year, defending the board’s move to host the India vs. South Africa Test in Delhi despite growing concerns.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia was quoted as saying by The Indian Express, “We have considered all factors and have gone by the rotation policy after discussing it with everyone. The pollution issue doesn't happen every year.”

Meanwhile, the DDCA secretary, Ashok Sharma, said they will do everything possible to ensure players are comfortable during the Test match against the Proteas side.

He also stressed that the Arun Jaitley Stadium is in a greener, more open area, making the air quality better than in other parts of Delhi.

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DDCA promises BCCI comfort amid pollution concerns in Delhi

The DDCA secretary further noted, “The DDCA will take all measures possible to ensure players are comfortable when they play the Test match. Furthermore, the Arun Jaitley Stadium is located in a relatively open area with more greenery around.

So, the air quality is better than in most other areas. Delhi had not been allotted a Test match for a while. The BCCI allotted us the game, so we have to go by the calendar. In November, the pollution, if at all, is less compared to December.”

On the other hand, the head of the Pulmonary, Sleep, and Critical Care department at Primus Hospital has reportedly warned the BCCI about holding a match in Delhi in November. He said pollution is at its worst during that time and can badly affect people who are outdoors.

India's home international season to begin with the West Indies series

Meanwhile, India's home international season will start with a two-Test series against the West Indies. The first Test will be held in Ahmedabad from October 2 to 6, followed by the second in Kolkata from October 10 to 14.

Then, India will face South Africa in the first Test in Delhi from November 14 to 18 and the second in Guwahati. After the two-match Test series, both teams will play three ODIs in Ranchi on November 30, Raipur on December 3, and Visakhapatnam on December 6, followed by five T20Is.

Cuttack (December 9), Mullanpur (December 11), Dharamsala (December 14), Lucknow (December 17), and Ahmedabad (December 19) will host the five T20I matches between the Men in Blue and South Africa.

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