ICC to discuss Delhi pollution issue in February

Ferozshah Kotla ground ()

New Delhi, Dec 8 - Taking note of the controversy over hazardous playing conditions during the recent Test match between India and Sri Lanka here, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Friday that it may formulate pollution guidelines for similar situations in future.

The Sri Lankan players had repeatedly complained over the high levels of pollution in the capital during the third Test match on December 2-6 at the Ferozshah Kotla and wore masks on the field during India's first innings on the second day.

"The ICC has noted the conditions in which the Delhi Test was played and has already requested the issue is considered by the medical committee for guidance should the situation arise in future. The matter is likely to be discussed in February's ICC meetings," an ICC spokesperson told IANS. 

If the ICC's medical committee reports that pollution level in the capital is too high, the Kotla can lose the right to host Test matches.

Bowlers from both sides struggled during the third Test with Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal vomitting on the field while fellow fast bowler Lahiru Gamage and Dhananjaya De Silva had to leave the playing arena.

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami had also vomitted on the field. The match had to be stopped for a brief period during the post lunch session of the second day.

Sri Lanka Nic Pothas had complained loudly over the issue, alleging that both teams were forced to use oxygen cylinders in their respective dressing rooms.

US embassy had also expressed concern over the high levels of pollution with its website reporting that concentrations of the smallest and most harmful pollution particles 18 times the safe limit set by the World Health Organisation.

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IANS