In recent years, the intersection of sports and climate change has become impossible to ignore — and the IPL, a game played mostly outdoors over long durations, finds itself on the frontlines of this crisis. As global temperatures rise and heatwaves become more intense and frequent, cricket players are facing physical, mental, and tactical challenges like never before. The question is no longer if climate change is affecting the sport, but rather how deeply it is impacting performances and the game’s future.
Rising Heatwaves: A Global Wake-Up Call for Cricket
Countries like India, Pakistan, Australia, and even parts of England have recently recorded record-breaking temperatures during peak cricketing months. In May 2025, during the IPL season, several matches were played under scorching 42°C heat, causing visible exhaustion among players. Umpires took extra water breaks, and physios had to be on constant alert for signs of heatstroke and dehydration.
Earlier in 2024, Australian players had to battle extreme UV exposure during their Big Bash League matches, with commentators raising concerns over players’ long-term health and skin cancer risks.
Physiological Impact on Players
High temperatures significantly affect players’ cardiovascular endurance, hydration levels, and overall stamina. Cricketers especially bowlers—are now burning out quicker due to elevated body temperatures. Symptoms such as:
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Excessive sweating and electrolyte imbalance
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Increased heart rate and fatigue
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Heat-induced cramps and nausea
…are becoming more common. Fast bowlers, who already operate at peak physical exertion, now risk injuries and heat exhaustion at a higher rate.
In 2022, England’s Ollie Pope admitted to losing over 3 kg in one Test match due to dehydration in Pakistan. This is not just a medical concern; it’s a performance killer.
Tactical Changes Due to Climate Pressure
Teams are beginning to factor in weather conditions not just for pitch behaviour, but also player rotation and energy conservation. Captains now make decisions based on which bowlers can endure the heat better, often rotating spinners more frequently during day sessions.
The old adage “win the toss, bat first” might soon be replaced with “win the toss, manage the heat.” Mid-day sessions are becoming punishing, prompting conversations about twilight Test matches or night matches becoming more common.
The Case of Spin Bowling and Fielding Fatigue
Spinners are thriving more in high-heat conditions, especially in subcontinental pitches that crack up faster. But for fielders—especially in longer formats—heat is a silent tormentor. Standing under direct sunlight for 90+ overs, sometimes without much physical activity, leads to mental sluggishness and delayed reaction times.
Dropped catches, missed run-outs, and poor throwing decisions are increasingly linked with mental fatigue caused by extreme temperatures.
Women’s Cricket and the Heat Challenge
Women cricketers are also feeling the heat—both metaphorically and literally. Many women’s matches do not yet have the same level of medical support or recovery infrastructure as men’s games. Heatwave conditions can have a stronger impact due to physiological differences and longer recovery times.
During the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa, matches played under searing midday sun saw several players visibly struggling, with fewer cooling aids or ice baths available post-match.
How Cricket Boards Are Responding
The response so far has been tentative. Some boards are introducing:
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Mandatory drinks breaks every 40 minutes
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Heat stress protocols and medical screenings before matches
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Rotating venues to avoid high-risk heat zones during peak months
The BCCI and Cricket Australia have begun scheduling more evening games, especially for T20 formats. Meanwhile, England and the ECB are conducting studies on how synthetic turf and shaded stadium designs could help mitigate the impact of sun exposure.
However, critics argue these are band-aid solutions, not long-term strategies.
Calls for Change from Within the Cricketing Fraternity
Cricketers themselves are beginning to speak out. Pat Cummins, Australia’s Test captain, has openly expressed concerns about playing in unsustainable heat. Similarly, England’s Ben Stokes has called for global discussions on player welfare in extreme weather conditions.
The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) is now lobbying the ICC to develop a “Heat Index Threshold”, above which matches would be delayed or modified — much like rain delays.
What the Future Could Look Like
Looking ahead, we may see:
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Smart jerseys with built-in cooling sensors
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Dynamic scheduling based on AI-driven weather predictions
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Flexible match timings to avoid peak heat hours
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Wider use of indoor cricket stadiums with temperature control
While these may sound futuristic, the urgency of climate change may force cricket into rapid innovation.
Why Fans and Media Should Care
Heat doesn’t just affect the players — it affects the quality of the game. A tired athlete is a less precise athlete. Diminished reflexes, slower bowling speeds, and frequent cramping make for less competitive cricket.
Also, fans in the stands are at risk too. Many stadiums in South Asia lack shaded areas or water refill points. Extreme heat could start affecting attendance and viewership.
Conclusion: The Time to Act Is Now
Cricket is no longer just about bat vs ball — it’s now human resilience vs climate extremes. As the planet warms, the sport must evolve quickly or risk compromising the health of its stars and the essence of the game itself.
Cricketing bodies, sponsors, broadcasters, and fans must all acknowledge that climate change is not a distant threat — it’s already on the pitch.
