Delhi, Kolkata Swap India Tests Over Pollution Concerns

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a swap of Test match venues for India's upcoming home season, moving the second Test against West Indies from Kolkata's Eden Gardens to New Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium, and the first Test against South Africa from New Delhi to Eden Gardens. This change was driven by concerns over hazardous air pollution levels in Delhi during mid-November, a situation that previously affected player health during a 2017 Test match. The season will commence with two World Test Championship matches against West Indies starting in Ahmedabad, followed by the relocated Delhi Test. South Africa's senior team will play at Eden Gardens starting November 14, while their 'A' team tour includes matches in Bengaluru and Rajkot, providing opportunities to assess talent ahead of the senior series. Additionally, the women's ODI series against Australia has been relocated from Chennai to New Chandigarh and New Delhi due to pitch and outfield renovations, with New Delhi hosting the final match. These adjustments reflect the BCCI's efforts to balance health concerns, venue readiness, and the promotion of cricket across various Indian cities.