No cricket during high pollution! ICC set to issue guidelines

TIL Desk Sports/The International Cricket Council is likely to incorporate air pollution in its ‘Playing Conditions’ clause, having taken a serious note of the plight of Sri Lankan cricketers during the recently-concluded Test match against India in New Delhi.

The Sri Lankan players were seen fielding while wearing anti-pollution masks during India’s innings with most of their players complaining of breathlessness. Their pace bowlers Suranga Lakmal and Lahiru Gamage also threw up due to uneasiness.

The ICC has decided to refer the matter to its medical committee, which has been provided the relevant reports as well as data of the prevailing air quality in Delhi.

“The ICC has noted the conditions in which Delhi Test was played and has already requested that 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 said on Friday.

As a result, there could be a slight alteration in the clauses of the Playing Conditions, where the health hazard of players related to severe air pollution can be incorporated.