BCCI responds to reports of a possible venue change for the India vs Sri Lanka ODI. (Img: X)
New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday dismissed reports suggesting that the opening One Day International (ODI) between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled to be played in Delhi in December, would be relocated to Ahmedabad, clarifying that no decision has been taken to alter the venue.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the reports were inaccurate and reiterated that the allocation of venues for bilateral international matches is governed by an established policy. The clarification comes amid speculation that ongoing construction work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium could affect its readiness to host the series opener.
In an official statement, Saikia rejected claims that the governing body had decided to move the match to Ahmedabad, urging the media to rely on official communications for updates concerning the schedule. He further emphasised that bilateral fixtures are allotted in accordance with a standardised policy, indicating that the existing venue arrangements remain unchanged.
According to the schedule published by the BCCI, the first ODI of the three-match series is slated for December 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Ahmedabad is scheduled to host the third and final ODI on December 19.
Reports about a possible venue change emerged amid concerns over ongoing construction activity at the Delhi stadium. The speculation raised questions about whether the facility would be ready to host the international fixture as scheduled.
The BCCI's clarification has, for now, put an end to reports of a relocation. However, the match remains subject to the usual arrangements and preparations associated with hosting an international cricket fixture.
The proposed December fixture has also drawn attention because of Delhi's recurring air pollution problem during the winter months. The issue has previously affected international cricket in the capital. During a Test match between India and Sri Lanka in 2017, Sri Lankan players experienced difficulties while playing amid severe pollution, with fast bowler Suranga Lakmal seen vomiting on the field.
Air quality concerns also surfaced during the 2023 ODI World Cup fixture between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Both teams cancelled training sessions, while some players who attended optional practice wore masks.
The recurring problem has prompted questions about the suitability of scheduling major sporting events in Delhi during the period when pollution levels typically deteriorate. The BCCI had previously indicated that the timing of matches in the capital would be taken into consideration while preparing future schedules.
Sri Lanka's December tour will comprise three ODIs followed by three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). The opening ODI is currently scheduled for December 13 in Delhi, while the final match of the ODI series is slated for December 19 in Ahmedabad. For now, the BCCI has maintained the original schedule, with no official announcement indicating a change in venue.
