Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the first ODI of the three-match series between India and Sri Lanka, which was scheduled for December 13, will now move from Delhi to the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. This decision has been taken after the request of Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA).
Why was India vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI moved?
1. Renovation work in Arun Jaitley Stadium
The first official reason was the ongoing renovation work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Due to improvements in the venue, it could have been difficult to complete the necessary preparations for an international match. Hence DDCA requested BCCI to shift the match to some other venue.2. Delhi's winter weather and air pollution concerns
Delhi's air quality also became an important topic of discussion. The city often experiences severe pollution during the winter months, when cold conditions help trap pollutants closer to the ground.
There is also a worrying example against the same opposing team. During India's Test against Sri Lanka in Delhi in December 2017, the visiting players wore safety masks due to heavy smog, and play was halted due to the conditions.
BCCI's official statement mentioned potential weather disruptions and stadium renovation, but reports also indicated that air quality was also a consideration behind the venue change.
Why was Visakhapatnam chosen as the venue for IND vs SL 1st ODI?
The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam is an established international cricket venue. The coastal ground has hosted several international matches and provides the BCCI with an alternative venue for the series opener without changing the match date.
For fans, this transfer means that the first ODI will still take place on December 13, but Delhi supporters will not get the opportunity to watch the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
India tour of Sri Lanka 2026: updated schedule
| match | date | venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st ODI | 13 december | Visakhapatnam | 2:00 PM |
| 2nd ODI | 16th December | Bengaluru | 2:00 PM |
| 3rd ODI | 19th December | Ahmedabad | 2:00 PM |
| 1st T20I | 22 December | Rajkot | 7:00 PM |
| 2nd T20I | 24th December | ridge | 7:00 PM |
| 3rd T20I | 27th December | Pune | 7:00 PM |