Afghanistan vs New Zealand Test Postponed Due to Unplayable Conditions

The one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand has been severely impacted by persistent rainfall and ground conditions at the Greater Noida Sports Complex. For the second consecutive day, the match could not commence, with the outfield remaining too wet for play. The drainage system was overwhelmed by the heavy overnight rain, creating several slushy pockets and rendering the field unsafe.

Groundsmen tried to address the situation using artificial grass and other methods, but the damage was significant. The outfield's lack of a sand-based structure, which could have improved drainage, exacerbated the problem. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the local administration have been working hard to make the venue playable, with the BCCI providing additional equipment and expertise, including a super sopper and support from Feroz Shah Kotla curator Ankit Dutta.

Afghanistan's player Ibrahim Zadran sustained an injury reportedly due to the poor outfield conditions, adding to the concerns. Despite efforts to shift the match or find alternative solutions, the weather continues to pose challenges. The ACB remains hopeful that play might resume if conditions improve, but the situation remains uncertain.