IND vs SL 2017/18: Sri Lankan Players Undergo Medical Tests Amidst High Pollution

The third Test between Indian and Sri Lanka saw an unusual course of events as the match was halted because of the harmful pollution levels in the national capital. The match was stopped at regular intervals as the Sri Lankan players felt difficult to breathe and did not feel well. In the first innings, several Sri Lankan players were unwell and vomited during the match, and the left the fielding Sri Lankan side to 10 men at one stage.

The scenes did not change in the second innings as well as the players felt uneasiness while breathing and vomited during the innings. Looking at the seriousness of the situation, the Delhi District Cricket Association on Tuesday called up a specialist from the All India Medical Sciences Dr A.P. Bhalla, Professor, Department of Anesthesia, Pain and Critical Care- to conduct medical tests of the visiting Sri Lankan side to assure them of the existing pollution level in the city.

According to reports, three Sri Lankan players Niroshan Dickwella, Roshan De Silva and Lakshan Sandakan underwent tests for pulse and Oxygen levels, and their Oxygen levels showed readings of 99, 98 and 99, respectively, while the optimum scale should be 100.

A general medicine expert was called after that to calm the Sri Lankan players down as they struggled in the high pollution levels and found it very difficult to play in such hazardous conditions. The fourth day started with poor visibility, and the floodlights had to be switched on in the first session itself.

In another building story which had spread panic amongst the fans was that the Sri Lankan board had called back nine players who were coming to India to join the ODI squad from Colombo Airport on Monday night. Many had speculated that the high pollution rate in the national capital was the reason.

However, it was later learnt that there was a delay on the part of Sri Lanka Cricket Board from sending the selected team for clearance from the sports ministry which resulted in recalling the players back.

The three-match ODI series between India and Sri Lanka will begin from 10^th December in Dharamshala.