After the frequent concerns raised by members of the Sri Lanka team during the recently concluded Delhi Test against India, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has decided to consider air pollution guidelines for matches in the future.

As quoted in Cricbuzz, an ICC spokesperson said, “The ICC has noted the conditions in which the Delhi Test was played and has already requested the issue is considered by the medical committee for guidance should the situation arise in future. The matter is likely to be discussed in February’s ICC meetings.”

During the Delhi Test, Sri Lankan cricketers were forced to wear the pollution masks during their stay on the field while a few players fell sick during the course of play. It led to breaks during the first innings of the Test match but the cricketers decided to get on with the game. The umpires and match referee barred from taking an action but with possible guidelines coming into play, there could be a different outcome should a similar situation occur in the future.

Medical practitioners also have raised their opinion on the matter, citing potentially harmful outcomes if players are allowed to perform in severely polluted conditions.