Players Take the Field Wearing Masks as Pollution Disrupts Ranji Trophy Match in Mumbai

Mumbai: An unusual and concerning scene unfolded during the Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Delhi at the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) on Thursday, as players were forced to wear face masks on the field due to severe dust pollution caused by nearby construction work.

During the final session of the day, thick clouds of dust engulfed the ground, making breathing difficult for players and support staff alike. As a precautionary measure, several Mumbai players, including India batter Sarfaraz Khan, his brother Musheer Khan, and off-spinner Himanshu Singh, were seen fielding with masks for nearly 30 minutes.

The situation was so uncomfortable that even some Delhi players requested masks from the Mumbai camp, citing breathing difficulties while running between the wickets and fielding. Members of the support staff seated near the dressing room were also seen wearing masks as the dust continued to hover over the stadium.

According to officials, the pollution was largely attributed to ongoing construction activity near the BKC ground. The air quality index (AQI) recorded on Thursday evening stood at 156, a level categorized as “unhealthy” under medical standards.

Taking serious note of the situation, the Mumbai team management lodged a written complaint with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). In the letter, the team urged the MCA to coordinate with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to ensure that construction-related dust is controlled, citing concerns over player health and safety.

Despite the challenging conditions, the match continued. Delhi were bowled out for 221 runs in their first innings, with opener Sanat Sangwan scoring a fine century, making 118 runs off 218 deliveries. For Mumbai, fast bowler Mohit Avasthi starred with the ball, claiming five wickets for 62 runs.

Speaking to the media after the day’s play, Avasthi acknowledged that the dust from construction activity had significantly affected players, forcing them to wear masks on the field. The day’s play ended a few minutes early due to poor light, with Mumbai reaching 13 for 1 in their first innings.

The incident has once again raised serious questions about player safety, pollution control, and venue preparedness during domestic cricket matches in major metropolitan cities.