Delhi Air Pollution: World Cup 2023 Match may be abandoned if AQI continues to rise

The air pollution in Delhi is an ongoing menace which the citizens of the capital endure every year. Despite all the promises of a better next year, things remain the same with each passing year.

This year, the scenario is the same. The air of the Capital is ravaged with pollutants, aerosol and particles which can be hazardous to health. And the vicious Delhi Pollution has gone such evil, that we may see a World Cup match getting abandoned.

Bangladesh is set to face Sri Lanka in an ICC World Cup 2023 fixture on Monday, November 6. Neither of the teams have much at stake, with Bangladesh already out of the tournament and Sri Lanka barely holding on. Despite their shaky standings, these Asian rivals look forward to making the most of their remaining games.

But there are speculations about the possible cancellation of the match due to concerns regarding air quality. The game between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka may end up getting scrapped because of crippling air pollution in and around Delhi.

Now registering between 300 to 500, the Air Quality Index indicates an unhealthy atmosphere for the players and also the spectators.

Health experts have expressed concern over the escalating pollution level and its potential impact on the players' breathing. Delhi's persistently hazardous air quality continues to be a health concern for its local population, causing a high frequency of respiratory ailments.

In addition to pollution, dense smog shrouds Delhi's skyline, posing a challenge to visibility, especially for a game involving a white ball. Moreover, the heavy smog takes a considerable amount of time to dissipate which could potentially result in a late start of the match.

Area-specific AQI figures on the preceding Friday disclosed staggering numbers: Pusa - 444, Delhi Airport area - 456, Rohini - 444, and Old Delhi - 431. If similar levels are recorded on Monday, the match hangs in uncertainty.

Any complaints from players or officials pertaining to breathing difficulties could result in the immediate termination of the game. Therefore, the likelihood of match abandonment is quite high given the prevailing air quality conditions in Delhi.

If the match does get cancelled, both teams will receive a single point. This could mark Sri Lanka's exit from the tournament.