The hygiene concerns surrounding the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in New Delhi have sparked significant discussion. Recent allegations rose following a viral video from Arun Jaitley Stadium, prompting the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) to respond officially to these claims.
The clip, taken during the Group A match between the Netherlands and Namibia on February 10, appeared to show a vendor pouring a fizzy drink from a glass back into its bottle. The video quickly spread on social media, leading to concerns about the reuse of leftover beverages for sale.
🚨 Shocking Visuals from Arun Jaitley Stadium 🏟️ 🚨
Viral video claims leftover drinks were reused at Arun Jaitley Stadium during ICC T20 World Cup. pic.twitter.com/VSiOBnAlkP
— Indian Cricket (@IPL2025Auction) February 12, 2026
DDCA clarifies viral video claims
In an official statement, DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma addressed the allegations directly.
He stated, “The DDCA has come across a video circulating on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), alleging that a vendor was seen pouring cold drinks back into bottles during a recent match. It is clarified that this pouring was conducted by the authorised concessionaire for the stadium, in accordance with event guidelines. The concessionaire served Coca-Cola products as per the agreed commercial arrangements and operational standards.”
The association emphasized that the actions depicted in the video were not an instance of resale, but part of the venue’s established waste-management system.
Sharma added, “DDCA adheres to stringent hygiene protocols at all venues. In the instance shown in the video, the vendor, while separating wet and dry waste, poured the unused beverage back into the bottle prior to disposal as part of the waste collection process. The bottles were later gathered, segregated, and processed following the venue’s waste management and recycling policy. It is reiterated that the bottles were disposed of responsibly in accordance with established environmental and operational guidelines.”
Viral clip had triggered hygiene concerns
Before the clarification, the footage had generated substantial backlash online, with many questioning the sanitation standards at one of India’s top cricket venues during a major tournament.
The video was widely understood to show leftover drinks being collected, resulting in criticism and calls for accountability. Given the global significance of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, these allegations quickly gained momentum.
However, with the DDCA’s statement on record, the association has asserted that standard hygiene and environmental compliance protocols were followed without fail.
Security and operational oversight during World Cup fixtures
This development comes amid increased scrutiny regarding arrangements at Arun Jaitley Stadium, which is set to host numerous fixtures in the tournament.
According to a report by WION, security measures were intensified prior to India’s group-stage match against Namibia, featuring layered security deployments within the stadium, discreet monitoring in spectator areas, and additional private security personnel.
The venue is scheduled to host matches such as Canada vs. UAE, Afghanistan vs. UAE, South Africa vs. UAE, and a Super 8 match on March 1.
With the DDCA formally denying any breaches of hygiene and emphasizing adherence to waste disposal protocols, attention now shifts back to the exhilarating on-field action as the T20 World Cup progresses in Delhi.
Key Takeaways
- Concerns about hygiene at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 arose from a viral video.
- The DDCA clarifies that the actions in the video were part of waste management protocols.
- Strict hygiene and operational standards are upheld at the venue.
- Security measures at Arun Jaitley Stadium were enhanced ahead of key matches.
- The venue remains set to host a series of important fixtures as the tournament continues.
FAQ
What sparked the controversy regarding hygiene at the T20 World Cup?
A viral video showed a vendor allegedly pouring leftover drinks back into bottles, raising concerns about sanitation practices at the stadium.
How did the DDCA respond to the allegations?
The DDCA clarified that the vendor’s actions were part of a waste management process and emphasized that hygiene protocols were strictly followed.
What security measures were implemented at the stadium?
Security was heightened with layered deployments, discreet monitoring, and additional private security personnel in preparation for important matches.
Will there be more matches at Arun Jaitley Stadium?
Yes, several key matches, including the Super 8, are scheduled to take place at the venue as part of the tournament.
