DDCA requests BCCI to shift India-Sri Lanka ODI from Delhi

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has formally requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to move the first ODI of the India-Sri Lanka series away from the national capital, citing twin concerns of air quality and stadium infrastructure work.

The match, originally scheduled for December 13 at the Feroz Shah Kotla, faces logistical and environmental hurdles. Pollution levels in Delhi typically surge during November and December, raising concerns over player health and match conditions. Simultaneously, the venue is undergoing significant outfield renovation, with sand-based turf being installed in a project expected to span three months.

"Pollution is a major factor and then there is renovation work going on. So we have requested the BCCI to move the game out of Delhi," a DDCA source said.

The bilateral series comprises three ODIs and three Twenty20 Internationals scheduled throughout December. The BCCI's decision on the venue change remains pending, though such relocations are not uncommon during India's winter season when pollution levels in northern Indian cities reach hazardous levels.