Sri Lanka Tour: BCCI Shifts First ODI from Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium Due to Pollution Concerns

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had to bow down to Delhi's toxic pollution-laden air. In December, the Sri Lankan team will tour India for a white-ball (ODI and T20I) series. It will begin with an ODI series on 13 December. The first ODI was scheduled to be played at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium, but has now been shifted to Visakhapatnam. The Indian board released a release on Thursday (05 November). The BCCI had demanded a change in the venue a few days earlier. The request was also mentioned in the release. The Delhi Cricket Board had requested a change due to Delhi's inclement weather (pollution) and the ongoing renovation work at the stadium. The Indian board's release read, "Venue has been changed on request of Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA). Keeping in mind the possible weather constraints and proposed renovation works at Lanka Stadium." Further, the match will be played at Visakhapatnam Cricket Stadium on 13 December 2026 between Sri Lanka and India.