The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed reports suggesting that the opening One-Day International (ODI) of India’s upcoming three-match series against Sri Lanka will be shifted from Delhi to Ahmedabad.
BCCI honorary secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed on Monday that the match, scheduled for December 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, will take place in the national capital as planned.
BCCI Confirms Delhi as Venue for Series Opener
Saikia clarified that reports about a possible change of venue were inaccurate and that the board had not made any decision to move the fixture to Ahmedabad.
He said the India-Sri Lanka ODI would remain in Delhi according to the original schedule. The clarification comes amid speculation that renovation work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium could affect the match.
The BCCI’s statement has put an end to uncertainty surrounding the venue, reassuring fans and other stakeholders that the opening match is still scheduled to take place in Delhi.
Venue Allocation Follows BCCI’s Standard Policy
Saikia also explained that the BCCI allocates venues for bilateral international matches according to an established policy.
He reiterated that the Delhi fixture had been allotted under the board’s standard venue-allocation framework, dismissing suggestions that the match would be moved because of the ongoing renovation work.
The BCCI secretary urged media organisations to rely on official board communications for accurate information about match venues, schedules and other fixture-related updates.
Bengaluru and Ahmedabad to Host Remaining ODIs
Following the opening match in Delhi on December 13, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad are scheduled to host the remaining two matches of the three-match ODI series.
The tour is expected to conclude by December 27, according to the announced schedule.
With the BCCI confirming that the opening fixture will remain in Delhi, local cricket fans can continue making plans to attend the match without concerns about a last-minute venue change.
BCCI Clarification Ends Venue Speculation
The board’s clarification has settled speculation about the possible relocation of the India-Sri Lanka ODI opener. Delhi remains the designated venue, and no change to the original schedule has been announced.
The confirmation will be welcomed by cricket fans in the capital as preparations continue for the upcoming international series.