AFG-NZ, One-off Test: Outfield dug up to fix wet patch
What's the story
The historic one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand at the Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground has been postponed due to a damp outfield. This venue is hosting its first-ever Test match. The first day of the match was completely washed out without a ball being bowled, while the second day has also been delayed because of overnight rain.
Field conditions
Ground staff's struggle to fix wet outfield
Despite clear skies, the persistent delay is due to the damp outfield. Notably, the ground staff dug up a wet patch in the outfield and attempted to cover it with artificial grass while using fans to dry the surface. However, their efforts were hampered by a lack of modern facilities and manpower at this stadium managed by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority.
Team concerns
Teams' dissatisfaction with pitch conditions
Both teams stayed at the hotel and didn't even reach the stadium in the morning. New Zealand players, including captain Tim Southee and all-rounders Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra, assessed the pitch conditions but were not satisfied with the dampness near the mid-on area. An official from Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) expressed their dissatisfaction, stating, "This is a huge mess, we are never coming back here."
Venue shortcomings
Venue's lack of facilities affects media operations, fan experience
The venue's lack of modern facilities extended beyond the playing area, affecting media operations and fan experience. It lacked a proper media stand, adequate seating arrangements, and basic amenities such as water, power supply, and access to a female washroom. The absence of a public announcement system left fans uninformed about the situation. This is the first international fixture at this venue since March 2020.