Delhi smog forces Sri Lankan players to wear face masks

NEW DELHI: The deadly Delhi smog took its toll on visiting Sri Lankan cricket players on Sunday, forcing many sportsmen to wear protective face masks and interrupting the third and final Test match between India and Sri Lanka. 

Coming back from lunch, several Sri Lankan cricketers, including captain Dinesh Chandimal, Suranga Lakmal and Lakash Sadakanan, were seen wearing face masks on the field of the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, the Indian media reported.  

A break was called on by the umpires to discuss the health concerns after Lahiru Gamage started coughing while bowling.

Both the captains discussed with umpires whether the game should be continued as Chandimal stressed his players were not comfortable on the field. 

The third umpire and match referee were also made aware of the situation and medical teams were brought on the field to take a look at whether the players can continue.

After several discussions, Sri Lankan fielders went back to their fielding positions, still wearing masks and the game resumed. After 10 minutes of play, there was another interruption as Gamage, who looked clearly distressed while bowling, left the field to get a medical check-up. 

Later, Lakal too went off the field citing health concerns. However, the pay was resumed afterward and continues. 

The Air Quality Index level in New Delhi on Sunday was registered as “hazardous”, with PM 2.5 level measured at 316 by aqicn.org.