Mumbai Players Forced to Wear Face Masks During Ranji Trophy Game — Here’s Why
Poor air quality and dust from nearby construction forced Mumbai cricketers, including Sarfaraz Khan, to wear masks while fielding against Delhi.
Unusual Sight on the Cricket Field
During the Ranji Trophy Group D match between Mumbai and Delhi at the MCA‑BKC Ground, several Mumbai players were seen wearing face masks while fielding. The unusual move came as a precaution against dust and poor air quality affecting the stadium due to ongoing construction work nearby.
Why Players Wore Masks
The air quality index (AQI) at the ground hovered around 160, which is classified as “unhealthy”. Breathing under such conditions is difficult, especially during physical exertion. Players decided to wear masks to protect their lungs from dust and pollutants while fielding.
Players Who Wore Masks
Several notable Mumbai cricketers were spotted wearing protective masks during the match:
- Sarfaraz Khan – India & Mumbai batter
- Musheer Khan – Team player
- Himanshu Singh – Mumbai spinner
The masks were primarily used during the third session of play and removed later when the air conditions slightly improved.
Players Speak on Air Quality Concerns
Mumbai pacer Mohit Avasthi explained that wearing masks was a practical response to dust and pollution. He stressed that the move was purely for health reasons and not a gimmick. The players wanted to avoid breathing issues while fielding.
Pollution Impact on Sports
While poor air quality is a common issue in many Indian cities, it is rare to see professional cricketers wearing masks mid-match. The incident has sparked discussions online about environmental conditions in sports venues and the health risks faced by athletes during high pollution periods.
Experts have highlighted that continuous exposure to unhealthy air can affect stamina, lung function, and overall performance, prompting calls for stricter air quality monitoring at sports venues.
Looking Ahead
Officials and cricket boards may now consider improved safety protocols for players in polluted cities, including:
- Monitoring AQI during matches
- Providing masks or other protective gear
- Delaying or rescheduling matches during extreme pollution
The Mumbai players’ decision has also raised awareness about the need for better planning to protect athletes from environmental hazards.
