When sporting schedules are planned without foresight, then one can expect the unprecedented spectacle that set in at Kotla (‘Sport’ page – “Smog stoppages play spoilsport”, December 4). It is well-known that winter in north India is unsafe because of the crippling air pollution.
Some of the Sri Lankan players may have overreacted but it is grossly incorrect to assume that they were feigning the symptoms. Instead of looking at the “missing and out-of-action” Delhi government, it is unbecoming of a good host to belittle the already embattled visitors.
Ganapathi Bhat,
Akola, Maharashtra
That Delhi is affected by severe air pollution is a well-documented fact and on the day of play, the levels were severe. Athletes are bound to get affected by this. I have experienced this myself while going for a run in winter. Such high levels of of pollution decrease the oxygen-absorbing efficiency of the lungs which definitely affects a cricketer’s performance as the game of cricket is an intense activity.
I think the ICC and the BCCI should now look into the matter and try to frame concise guidelines on the lowest level of air quality required for a game to be played.
Vinay Vashisht,
Sonipat, Haryana
