In a significant development ahead of India’s home cricket season, the BCCI has announced a swap in the Test venues for the West Indies and South Africa series. Delhi, initially scheduled to host the opening Test against South Africa from November 14 to 18, will now host the second Test against West Indies starting October 10. Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will host the South Africa opener instead.
Although the BCCI didn’t cite an official reason, sources suggest the decision was made due to severe air pollution levels in Delhi during mid-November. A similar situation occurred during a Test against Sri Lanka a few years ago, when Sri Lankan players wore masks and complained of breathing difficulties. Reportedly, the BCCI’s Cricket Operations team reviewed air quality data from recent years before finalising the venue switch.
India’s home season begins with two WTC Tests against West Indies starting October 2 in Ahmedabad. After that, India hosts South Africa for a full tour including two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is across various venues. The second Test against South Africa will be historic for Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium, marking its debut as a Test venue.
The ODI series will be played in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam, while T20Is are set for Cuttack, New Chandigarh, Dharamsala, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad. Separately, the TNCA has opted out of hosting the women’s ODI series against Australia in September. Mullanpur and New Delhi will now host those matches.