Delhi Set to Miss India-Sri Lanka ODI as Stadium Undergoes Outfield Revamp

Delhi May Miss India-Sri Lanka ODI as Arun Jaitley Stadium Renovation Delays Return

Virat Kohli’s wait to play an international match in front of his home fans could get longer, with Delhi facing the prospect of losing the opening ODI between India and Sri Lanka scheduled for December 13. The extensive renovation of the Arun Jaitley Stadium’s outfield has put its availability for the upcoming fixture in doubt.

Although Delhi was named as one of the venues in India’s home international schedule announced in March, the ongoing construction work has significantly reduced the chances of the national capital hosting the match.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) is replacing the stadium’s existing outfield with a modern sand-based surface. The initiative is intended to improve water drainage, prevent waterlogging and ensure quicker recovery of the playing area after rainfall.

According to a source familiar with the redevelopment, the project could require approximately four months to finish. Consequently, the Arun Jaitley Stadium may remain unavailable for cricket until the IPL 2027 season.

Sand-based outfields are already operational at venues such as Mullanpur and Lucknow. The technology allows rainwater to drain more efficiently, reducing the formation of puddles and the requirement for extensive ground covers.

The potential relocation of the December fixture would be disappointing for Kohli, who has not played an ODI at the Arun Jaitley Stadium since the 2023 World Cup. India’s previous appearance at the ground was on October 11, 2023, when the hosts registered an eight-wicket victory over Afghanistan.

DELHI’S DOMESTIC CRICKET SCHEDULE DISRUPTED
The impact of the redevelopment is already visible in Delhi’s domestic cricket calendar. The DDCA has shifted the team’s Ranji Trophy home matches to the Airforce Complex Ground in Palam to facilitate the renovation.

Delhi recently played a draw against Gujarat in the second round and is scheduled to meet Services at Palam from Monday. Maharashtra are also scheduled to play against Delhi during the second phase of the competition.

The possible loss of the Sri Lanka ODI would further underline the impact of the stadium’s redevelopment on Delhi’s cricket calendar.

BCCI’S EARLIER ASSURANCE UNDER QUESTION
The venue uncertainty comes despite the BCCI previously dismissing speculation about a possible shift. Last month, board secretary Devajit Saikia rejected reports that the December 13 match might be transferred to Ahmedabad because of the renovation.

However, the extensive nature of the work and the estimated completion period have renewed concerns about whether the stadium can be prepared in time.

India Today Digital sought a response from the DDCA regarding the situation, but the association had not responded at the time of publication.