India made history on Thursday when they defeated Sri Lanka by a commanding score of 302 runs in their World Cup 2023 match. The Indian squad becomes the first team to enter the World Cup semifinals, led by skipper Rohit Sharma.

India, batting first, amassed an impressive score of 357 for 8 in the first inning. Virat Kohli (88 off 94 balls), Shubman Gill (92 off 92), and Shreyas Iyer (82 off 56) spearheaded India’s batting assault. With a quick 35 off 24 balls, Ravindra Jadeja added even more runs to India’s total. The most effective bowler for Sri Lanka was left-arm pacer Dilshan Madhushanka, who finished with figures of five for 80 in his ten overs.

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However, as Sri Lanka chased India’s impressive 358 total, they were knocked out for just 55 runs in 19.4 overs. All thanks to the spinners Mohammed Shami (5/18) and Mohammed Siraj (3/16), who gave them unforgettable nightmares.

The match was a pure spectacle. However, there is something that was missing in this match. And that’s fireworks. These fireworks have been in the news ever since the World Cup 2023 started in India. While many people have defended it, others have always been critical of it. Even two Australian teammates, Glenn Maxwell and David Warner, engaged in an indirect spat on the veracity of fireworks during the game.

Now, this ban on fireworks at Wankhede Stadium has raised many eyebrows. However, the decision has a connection with Rohit Sharma and pollution.

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wankhede stadium world cup 2023
outlookindia

Rohit Sharma’s concern about Mumbai’s air pollution resulted in no fireworks at Wankhede Stadium

As the Indian cricket team prepared to face Sri Lanka, their captain, Rohit Sharma, voiced his concerns about the worsening air quality in major Indian cities. Sharma underlined how unfavorable the current environmental circumstances are and how critical it is for the current generation to act to guarantee a better, fearless future for future generations.

His remarks came as a response to the increasing air pollution levels in the country, especially in the city of Mumbai, where they were having their match scheduled. Rohit’s comments met with positive responses on social media, with people appreciating him for taking a stance.

Rohit Sharma on Mumbai pollution
Rohit Sharma/Instagram

 

Following Sharma’s post, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made an important announcement regarding the upcoming matches. At Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, the BCCI decided to abandon the customary fireworks. According to BCCI, the decision was made because of the declining air quality in those cities as winter draws near.

Rohit Sharma reacted to no fireworks at Wankhede Stadium

At a pre-game news conference, Rohit Sharma admitted that things weren’t ideal. However, he added that the authorities were trying their best to address and lessen the problem. Rohit Sharma said,

“In an ideal world, you do not want a situation like this, but I am pretty sure that the concerned people are taking the necessary steps to avoid this kind of situation. It is not ideal, and everyone knows that.”

Sharma added that, even when he is not discussing cricket, he constantly attempts to draw attention to these issues. He said,

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“Looking at our future generations, your kids, my kids. Obviously, it is important that they get to live without any fear. Every time I get to speak outside of cricket or not discussing cricket, I always talk about this. We have to look after our future generations.”

rohit sharma press conference
BCCI

What do you think about his statements? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

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