Shashi Tharoor Advocates for Cricket Matches in South India During Winter Months

Tharoor's Call for Change in Cricket Scheduling

New Delhi: On Thursday, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor emphasized the need for cricket matches to be held in South India from mid-December to mid-January, as northern regions face heavy fog during this time, which can disappoint cricket fans.

Tharoor's comments followed the cancellation of the fourth T20 match between India and South Africa in Lucknow due to poor visibility caused by thick smog. This incident raised concerns regarding the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) decision to schedule games in northern India during peak winter conditions.

Expressing his concerns, Tharoor stated, "From mid-December to mid-January, fog is prevalent across northern India, making it extremely difficult for players to see the ball. As a cricket enthusiast, I feel frustrated that we missed the match yesterday between South Africa and India. Therefore, I propose that matches during this period be organized in South India. My hometown, Thiruvananthapuram, boasts an excellent stadium, and we are eager to host these events."

He also mentioned that the women's cricket team is set to play in Thiruvananthapuram at the end of December.

Tharoor urged the BCCI to consider weather conditions when planning match schedules, asserting, "Kerala is prepared, and I believe other southern locations will not experience such fog and low visibility. Thus, I request that no cricket matches be held in northern India during this timeframe to avoid disappointing cricket fans."

The Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram had previously shared his thoughts on the matter in a post on X, stating, "Cricket enthusiasts have been left waiting for the #INDVSSAODI to commence in Lucknow. However, due to the dense smog prevalent in many northern cities and an AQI of 411, visibility is insufficient for a cricket match. The game should have been scheduled in Thiruvananthapuram, where the AQI is currently around 68!"