Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi has been ruled out as the venue for India’s day-night ODI against Sri Lanka on December 13, 2026. The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the stadium cannot host the match due to ongoing renovation work.
The fixture was originally scheduled to start at 8:30 AM. However, with the Delhi venue unavailable, the BCCI is yet to announce a replacement ground. The decision is currently under review.
The renovation work at the stadium is expected to continue for around four months. However, no official completion date has been announced yet.
New pitches and drainage system part of major upgrade
The renovation at Arun Jaitley Stadium includes major changes to the playing area. The pitches and outfield are being relaid. A new drainage system is also being installed.
The upgraded drainage system is expected to help matches restart within 30 minutes of rainfall.
“We are aiming to provide the best infrastructure to our players, who in turn would give the best for the fans who come to cheer them. The new pitches and the outfield will be of high quality. We will have the best drainage system, which will ensure a start within half an hour regardless of the amount of rain. This was a major decision for us, in keeping with most modern cricket stadiums. We have the interest of the paying public and the players in mind,” a DDCA official said as quoted by Sportstar.
The renovation will also affect Delhi’s domestic cricket schedule. Ranji Trophy matches against Gujarat, Services and Maharashtra were scheduled to be played at the stadium.
Several women’s and junior fixtures will also be affected by the work.
The DDCA has identified Palam and Jamia Millia grounds as alternative venues. Delhi’s Ranji Trophy campaign is scheduled to begin against Gujarat at Palam on October 18, 2026.
Jamia Millia has also hosted Ranji Trophy cricket in the past. It last staged a match between Delhi and Orissa in February 2024.
For now, the BCCI will need to find a new venue for the December 13 India-Sri Lanka ODI.
