The Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) raised eyebrows after they scheduled a Test match against South Africa at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi from November 14-18. The pollution levels in Delhi are highest in November and the decision to host a Test in Delhi was not well received. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, there were questions if the ODI between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka would go ahead as planned due to the high level of pollution. The match did happen, but the teams cancelled their preceding practice sessions. In December 2017, a few Sri Lanka players wore masks during a Test in Delhi. More so, in November 2019, two Bangladesh players vomited on the field during an ODI. Two Ranji Trophy matches were cancelled due to players suffering headaches and burning sensations in the eyes in 2016.

Following the criticism, the BCCI defended the decision and cited rotation policy for their call to host the Test in Delhi. Speaking to the Indian Express, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the “pollution issue doesn’t happen every year”. He said, “We have considered all factors and have gone by the rotation policy after discussing it with."

DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma also welcomed the BCCI's decision to allot a Test to Arun Jaitley Stadium. “The DDCA will take all measures possible to ensure players are comfortable when they play the Test match. Also, the Arun Jaitley Stadium is located in a relatively open area with more green area around. So the air quality is better than in most other areas.”

“Delhi had not been allotted a Test match for a while. The BCCI allotted us the game, so we have to go by the calendar. In November, the pollution, if at all, is less compared to December,” he added

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