The first T20I match between India and Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday will be played as scheduled, despite the air quality in Delhi turning worse post-Diwali.
Notably, emission from firecrackers and stubble burning in the adjoining states of the National Capital Region has increased the pollution level in Delhi. However, according to reports, the situation is expected to get worse in the coming weekend.
However, the BCCI is hoping that the air quality will get better in the coming days.
“There will be no change to the venue of the opening T20I. We do realise that the air in the Capital isn’t in a good position right now, but we are hoping things will get better in the next couple of days,” a senior BCCI functionary told IANS.
The air in Delhi had turned ‘severe’ during Diwali on Sunday as the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded 999 in the Patparganj area.
As per AQI standards, 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 is poor while 301-400 is very poor. Readings above 400 is severe and is considered seriously harmful for health. Anything above 500 comes under the emergency category.
Bangladesh are slated to play three T20Is against India on 3, 7 and 10 November. The last two matches will be played in Rajkot and Nagpur, respectively.