Unprecedented drama unfolded at the Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi as the highly toxic air in the city reached 'very unhealthy levels' causing several delays in proceedings in the post lunch session. A few Sri Lankan players marched out wearing masks after lunch, which was followed by the first halt in play as pacer Lahiru Gamage complained of discomfort which required the Sri Lankan physio's attention. It took 17 minutes for play to resume, and upon resumption Gamage struck with the wicket of R Ashwin, before walking off the park. His pace bowling partner Suranga Lakmal too, left the field soon after.

There were more stoppages in play and plenty of confusion as the Sri Lankan players kept talking animatedly to the umpires between overs. At the time Sri Lanka were left with ten men on the park, with Sadeera Samarawickrama already off the field as a precautionary measure following a blow on the helmet when he was fielding at short-leg on Day One. Under the bizarre circumstances, the Sri Lankan trainer Nic Lee and fielding coach Manoj Abeywickrama were in full whites, ready to take the field if required.