Cricket Edging Into Climate Danger Zone, Warn Experts

Half of IPL 2025 matches played in dangerous heat conditions as experts and cricketers warn climate change is becoming an existential threat to the future of the sport

As global temperatures climb and extreme heat events become more frequent, cricket — a sport played under open skies — is increasingly feeling the heat. A new report titled “Hit for Six: The Danger Zone” warns that elite cricketers are now regularly playing in dangerous conditions, with climate change pushing human physiology and the sport itself toward breaking point.

IPL 2025 Played in Scorching Conditions

An analysis of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) found that 50% of matches were played in conditions classified under “Extreme Caution” or “Danger” on the Heat Index — a measure that combines air temperature and humidity to assess heat-related risk. Specifically, over 36% of IPL games fell into the “Extreme Caution” category, with another 12% reaching “Danger”, where the risk of heatstroke becomes significant.

These extreme conditions can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially when high humidity and intense UV radiation prevent the body from cooling effectively. According to the report — jointly produced by the British Association for Sustainability in Sport (BASIS), Climate Central, Frontrunners, and The Next Test — the risks are escalating rapidly.

Cricketers Sound the Alarm

Daren Ganga, former West Indies captain, emphasized the existential nature of the threat: “Forget concerns around formats or TV deals — this challenge is an existential one. I have played in blistering heat and recall the nausea, dizziness, and cramps of heatstroke. The disruption and despair from unpredictable weather are real, and it’s only going to get worse for future generations.”

Australian cricketer Ashton Turner, who has played for Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants, echoed similar concerns: “We can’t separate cricket from the places we play in. Weather extremes are already impacting the game. It’s time cricket wakes up to the reality of climate change — not just for our sport, but for the communities we represent.”

Simon Katich, former Australian Test player, pointed to the broader environmental changes affecting the sport in Australia: “In Sydney, we’ve seen extreme heat, bushfires, and flooding — events that have directly affected cricket at all levels. My son’s junior matches were cancelled at least four times this season alone. Even the Sydney Test has repeatedly lost time due to heavy rain.”

Hazardous Heat Days on the Rise

The report tracks a sharp rise in hazardous heat days since 1970 across major Indian stadiums. Mumbai has experienced a 125% increase, while Thiruvananthapuram recorded over 100 such days in 2024 alone. These are days when conditions exceed safe human limits, posing serious health risks.

Other cricketing nations — including Pakistan, Australia, South Africa, and the UK — are also facing more extreme heat events and weather disruptions, from cancelled domestic fixtures to delayed international matches.

Expert Warnings and Global Impact

Professor Mike Tipton, an expert in extreme environments from the University of Portsmouth, highlighted the physiological toll: “Players are now being asked to perform in environments that aren’t just uncomfortable — they’re dangerous. Rising temperatures and humidity are pushing human limits. This isn’t just about performance anymore; it’s about safety.”

Climate change isn’t only threatening cricket. Across the globe, elite sports are being disrupted — Wimbledon saw its hottest-ever opening day in 2025, while Club World Cup matches in the U.S. faced punishing heat. The UN’s World Meteorological Organization says 2025 is on track to be among the top three warmest years in recorded history — driven largely by fossil fuel emissions.

Cricket’s Unique Role in Climate Action

Selwin Hart, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action, used a cricket metaphor to issue a stark warning: “Climate change is the ultimate bouncer. If we misjudge it, it will inflict lasting damage. No cricketing nation is immune. But cricket, with its global reach and passionate following, can inspire real change. Bold action is needed from grassroots to governing bodies.”

Kristina Dahl, VP of Science at Climate Central, reinforced that without urgent cuts in carbon emissions, the trend of dangerous heat days will worsen: “Preserving the future of cricket will require both reducing carbon pollution and adapting the sport — including the timing of matches — to protect players and fans alike.”

The writer of this article is Dr. Seema Javed, an environmentalist & a communications professional in the field of climate and energy

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