The Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand in Greater Noida has faced significant delays, sparking a controversy over the venue’s conditions.
Play was called off on Day 2 due to wet patches on the field at the Pathik Sports Complex, despite clear weather.
Afghanistan’s international cricket manager Menhajuddin Raz explained that Greater Noida was selected over Kanpur and Bengaluru for logistical reasons.
With its proximity to Delhi airport, Noida offered the most convenient travel option for both teams.
Raz emphasized that Afghanistan has used Greater Noida as a home venue since 2016, playing numerous matches there.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) blamed recent heavy rains for the poor conditions, which affected the field’s readiness.
Though Afghanistan recently played a three-day game at the venue without issues, persistent rain made the field unplayable.
The umpires cited player safety as the reason for halting play due to the wet patches on the field.
The ACB had conducted a recce of the venue months prior, and both teams were confident in its preparedness.
Shifting the match to another venue was considered but ruled out due to the widespread impact of the monsoon across the region.
The ACB has hosted several international matches in India, but Noida’s challenges this time have cast doubt on future games there.
As the Test continues to face delays, the debate over venue selection and preparedness intensifies.