'Shameful' to see Lankan cricketers wearing masks: CM

Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said that it was a matter of "shame" to witness Sri Lankan cricketers wearing masks to play a game of cricket in Delhi due to air pollution. Banerjee, while speaking to reporters at state secretariat, said the government in Delhi must control the air pollution in consultation with all stakeholders. "It is shameful for the country to witness international-level cricket players wearing masks to play a game of cricket in Delhi. I am feeling ashamed of this and that's why I am saying all these. It is not a political issue but a genuine issue," Banerjee said.

It may be mentioned that players had to put on anti-pollution mask while fielding on the second day of the Test match between India and Sri Lanka in Feroze Shah Kotla Ground. The hosts were forced to declare the innings after Sri Lankan players complained of poor air quality. While speaking about frequent changes in weather, she said: "Delhi is the capital of India where Sri Lankan team had to play by wearing masks as the level of pollution has gone up."