Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Mumbai players wear masks amid pollution concerns during clash against Delhi

Several Mumbai players were seen wearing masks while fielding during their Ranji Trophy match against Delhi at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). Sarfaraz Khan, Musheer Khan, and Himanshu Singh were among those who took the precaution after pollution levels around the venue spiked significantly.

Continuous construction activity in the vicinity made the air noticeably dusty, prompting players to wear masks during the course of play. The conditions appeared to affect both teams, with visibility and air quality becoming talking points throughout the day. Delhi, however, managed a respectable outing with the bat, aided partly by favourable batting conditions and despite the challenging environment.

Sanat Sangwan laid a solid foundation for Delhi with a scintillating century, though he received little support from the rest of the batting lineup. With Priyansh Arya and Ayush Badoni away with the India A side for T20 World Cup warm-up preparations, Delhi’s batting looked relatively weak on paper. That assessment proved accurate, as the visitors struggled to build partnerships and keep the scoreboard moving, eventually being bowled out for 221 in the first innings.

Mumbai’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, led by Mohit Avasthi, who claimed a five-wicket haul by dismantling Delhi’s middle order and tail. Tushar Deshpande and Shams Mulani provided excellent support, picking up two wickets.

In reply, Mumbai did not have the best of starts with the bat. Opener Akash Anand was dismissed for four, leaving the hosts at 13/1 at the end of the day’s play. Tushar Deshpande was sent in as a night-watcher and successfully negotiated the final three deliveries of the day. Mumbai ended Day 1 trailing Delhi by 208 runs, with Deshpande and Akhil Herwadkar unbeaten at the crease.

In terms of standings, Mumbai continue to lead Group D with 30 points from six matches, having secured four wins. Delhi, on the other hand, are placed sixth with nine points from six games, with one loss and the remaining matches ending in draws. Delhi will look to build on their momentum on Day 2, while Mumbai remain in a comfortable position both in the match and on the points table.