Sri Lanka complains to ICC about pollution in Delhi during final Test

The third and final Test between India and Sri Lanka that was played in Feroz Shah Kotla stadium in New Delhi was marred by severe pollution. In an unprecedented move, the Lankan players were seen wearing face masks while fielding to combat the toxic air due to thick smog. Following that, Sri Lankan Cricket Board has complained to the sport’s governing body about the poor air quality.

The condition was so bad that fast bowlers from both sides were seen vomiting. A time came when Sri Lanka also ran out of substitute players and the support staff were dressed in whites, just in case. Sports minister Dayasiri Jayasekara said Sri Lanka Cricket made the complaint on Tuesday to the International Cricket Council, saying “We can’t play like this as four players had vomited” due to the pollution. As reported by Cricket Australia, he said the ICC had informed them that it will take necessary steps. However it is not certain what action ICC had taken.

Chandimal has his say

In the post-match presentation, Lankan skipper, Dinesh Chandimal shed some light on the plight of his team since they were alien to such conditions because they never had to face any of this in Sri Lanka. He admitted, though, that they were able to adapt better after the first two days but it was a struggle nonetheless.

“It was a tough time. The thing is, in Sri Lanka we are not used that, so that’s why we struggled (on) the first two days,” said Sri Lankan captain.

“But after that we needed to continue the game. We told the boys we have to forget about that and we need to play the game. Today is a fantastic day. It feels like Sri Lanka,” quipped the captain, referring to the less smoggy weather on the final day of the Test.

However, The Board of Control for Cricket in India added that Delhi could be dropped as a venue during winter when pollution spikes.