Archive · 25 Dec 2025
Indore 1997: Unsafe Pitch Cancels ODI
In 1997, India and Sri Lanka were playing a cricket match in Indore on Christmas Day.
The pitch was in very bad condition, with cracks and uneven surfaces.
After only three overs, the match was stopped because it was too dangerous for the players.
The teams and officials argued for about an hour before deciding to play a shorter, friendly match instead.
The main match was called off, and many people were upset.
The pitch was later fenced off, and there was even a court case about it.
This was the first time a cricket match was canceled because the pitch was unsafe.
The India vs. Sri Lanka ODI in Indore was called off after three overs due to an unsafe pitch.
Indian team officials requested a grassy pitch with bounce, but the ground was cracked and dangerous.
Sri Lankan players objected to the last-minute preparation of a new pitch.
Match referee Ahmed Ebrahim ruled the original pitch unsafe and called off the match.
A 25-over exhibition match was played instead to avoid spectator unrest.
- Who
- India and Sri Lanka cricket teams
- What
- A cricket match was called off due to an unsafe pitch
- When
- December 25, 1997
- Where
- Nehru Stadium, Indore
- Why
- The pitch was deemed too dangerous for play after just three overs
- Teams Involved
- India and Sri Lanka
- Match Type
- One Day International (ODI)
- Date
- December 25, 1997
- Location
- Nehru Stadium, Indore
- Match Status
- Called off after 3 overs
- Reason for Cancellation
- Unsafe pitch conditions
- Match Referee
- Ahmed Ebrahim (Zimbabwe)
- Outcome
- 25-over exhibition match played instead