The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly been compelled to relocate the knockout stage of the men's Under-23 one-day tournament from Delhi to Mumbai due to the severe air quality in the capital. The decision comes as Delhi's air quality continues to reach hazardous levels, a recurring issue particularly during this time of year.

According to sources within the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), the BCCI has verbally requested the MCA to prepare to host the matches between November 25 and December 1. "We got a call from the BCCI today, informing us that the MCA has been allotted the under-23 one-day knockouts due to high air pollution in the capital. Cricket can't be played in those conditions," a source in the MCA told The Indian Express.

On Thursday, data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicated that Delhi's air quality had reached the 'severe' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 400. Forecasts suggest that the air quality is likely to worsen over the next six days, remaining in the 'very poor' to 'severe' range, according to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' Air Quality Early Warning System. On Friday, November 21, 2025, Delhi is experiencing sunny weather with a temperature of 65°F (18°C) and 74% humidity. The forecast for the next 11 days indicates continued sunny conditions, but with humidity around 80%.

This is not the first time that air pollution has impacted cricket in Delhi. In December 2017, during a Test match against Sri Lanka, some Sri Lankan players wore masks to protect themselves from the poor air quality. The average AQI during that match was 316, which falls into the 'very poor' category, and it rose to 390 on the third day, compelling players to take the field in masks. In another instance in November 2019, a T20 International match between India and Bangladesh was held despite the city recording its worst AQI of the year at 810.

The BCCI has acknowledged the concerns surrounding air quality in both Mumbai and New Delhi. In 2023, the board prohibited the use of fireworks in Delhi and Mumbai during the ICC World Cup due to the deteriorating air quality.

The last league game of the under-23 tournament will be played in Vadodara on Friday. Eight teams are expected to participate in the knockout phase, and the schedule is expected to be released in the coming days.

While Delhi grapples with air pollution, Mumbai is experiencing relatively better conditions. On Friday, November 21, 2025, Mumbai is sunny with a temperature of 81°F (27°C) and 47% humidity. The forecast for the next 11 days indicates mostly sunny or partly cloudy conditions.

The decision to move the U23 tournament knockouts highlights the ongoing challenge of air pollution in Delhi and its potential impact on sports and other outdoor activities. The BCCI's move reflects a growing awareness of the need to prioritize the health and safety of players and stakeholders.