Follow UsThe BCCI faced heavy criticism for scheduling a Test match in Delhi during November 2025, a period when the city’s air quality typically deteriorates due to stubble burning and Diwali firecrackers. In response, the board reversed its decision by swapping the venues for two fixtures. As a result, Kolkata will now host the first India-South Africa Test, while Delhi will stage the second India-West Indies Test in October, reported the Times of India.
"The Arun Jaitley Delhi will now hold the second Test between India and West Indies between October 10-14, which was originally supposed to be held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Kolkata, meanwhile, will now hold the first Test between India and South Africa from Nov 14-18,” a source in the BCCI told TOI.
“This has been done to avoid the players from being affected by possibly high pollution levels at that time of the year. The BCCI prioritizes the welfare and well-being of the players and their health at all times. A formal announcement regarding this swap will be made in the next couple of days," the source added.
Pollution during the winter months - especially right after Diwali in November - has become a major concern in Delhi. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, for instance, the Bangladesh-Sri Lanka clash faced scrutiny due to poor air quality, prompting Bangladesh to cancel a training session.
In December 2017, Sri Lankan players were seen wearing masks during a Test in Delhi, with a few even vomiting on the field. Similar scenes unfolded in November 2019 when two Bangladeshi cricketers threw up mid-match during an ODI.
Over time, medical professionals have repeatedly cautioned against intense physical activity in Delhi during November, warning that exposure to such toxic air could have long-term health consequences. Earlier, the BCCI had defended the decision, citing rotation policy, but that faced severe criticism from all quarters.