The first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for December 13 at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium, may be shifted to another venue. Extensive renovation work at the stadium has created uncertainty over whether the ground will be ready in time to host the international fixture.

Delhi was originally allotted the match when the BCCI announced India's home season schedule in March. However, the ongoing changes to the playing surface have raised concerns about the stadium's readiness.

Major renovation work underway at the stadium

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) is replacing the existing turf with a new sand-based playing surface. The objective is to improve drainage, allowing rainwater to pass through the ground more efficiently and reducing waterlogging during wet weather.

The renovation is expected to take around four months. According to a source familiar with the project, the new surface will help the ground dry faster after rainfall and reduce the need to cover large sections of the outfield.

Similar sand-based grounds are already present at stadiums in Mullanpur and Lucknow. However, the scale of the ongoing work means Delhi may not be able to host major cricket matches until IPL 2027. With the December 13 deadline approaching, the possibility of the Sri Lanka ODI being moved elsewhere has increased.

Virat Kohli could miss an international match in his hometown

A change of venue would also disappoint fans hoping to see Virat Kohli play an international match in his home city. The former India captain has not featured in an ODI at the Arun Jaitley Stadium since the 2023 ODI World Cup.

India's most recent match at the venue was against Afghanistan on October 11, 2023, when the hosts secured an eight-wicket victory.

The renovation work has also disrupted Delhi's domestic cricket schedule. The DDCA has moved the team's Ranji Trophy home matches to the Air Force Complex Ground in Palam. Delhi recently played a draw against Gujarat at the venue and is scheduled to face Services there next.

BCCI had earlier ruled out shifting the match

The possibility of moving the December 13 ODI had already surfaced last month, with Ahmedabad being mentioned as a potential alternative venue.

However, BCCI Secretary Debajit Saikia had dismissed reports of a venue change and indicated that the match would remain in Delhi.

The situation has become uncertain again because of the ongoing ground work and questions over its completion timeline. India Today Digital has reportedly contacted the DDCA for clarification, but no response has been received so far.

Final decision awaited

The December 13 India-Sri Lanka ODI remains a major fixture for Delhi cricket fans, particularly those hoping to watch Virat Kohli in action at his home ground. Whether the Arun Jaitley Stadium can complete its renovation in time will determine if the national capital retains hosting rights or the match is shifted to another city.