The first-ever Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand was scheduled to begin on September 8 at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. However, poor ground conditions have delayed the match for two consecutive days, creating frustration among cricket fans. Despite being part of the world’s richest cricket board, the BCCI, mismanagement and lack of proper facilities at the stadium have brought embarrassment on an international level.
Rain Causes Delay, But Mismanagement Follows
The Greater Noida venue witnessed an hour of rain on Monday evening, which left the outfield wet. Even though the weather was clear on Tuesday, the ground was still not ready for play. The second day’s game was supposed to start half an hour earlier than usual, but the outfield remained unplayable. It was surprising to see such poor ground preparation, especially for a major international Test match.
To make matters worse, the authorities used makeshift methods like wedding Canopies to cover parts of the outfield. Raincoats were also put up later in the evening, making it clear that the venue lacked the essential infrastructure to handle such conditions. Fans and experts alike have expressed disappointment over the BCCI’s lack of preparation.
Basic Facilities Lacking
Aside from the poor handling of the outfield, many basic and essential facilities are also missing from the venue. Women’s toilets were reported to be inadequate, and broken seats and leaking roofs only add to the disarray. Despite having resources, the management failed to provide even the most basic amenities to spectators, adding to the embarrassment.
Drying the Ground with Table Fans
In a rather shocking turn of events, table fans were seen being used to dry the mid-on and midwicket areas of the outfield. This method was ridiculed by many as an example of how mismanagement has plagued the hosting of such an important match. Even though five super soppers were used, they were not enough to make the ground playable.
The grass was even brought from the practice areas in an attempt to dry certain parts of the field. Greater Noida Authority officials were present during the effort, but the lack of proper ground staff made things worse. According to reports, laborers were employed to manage the ground instead of trained groundsmen.
Poor Planning and Logistical Issues
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) had a few venue options for the match, including Kanpur, Bengaluru, and Greater Noida. The ACB chose Greater Noida for logistical reasons, as the venue had hosted several limited-overs matches before. Afghanistan had previously played 11 international matches at this venue. But this Test match delay has raised concerns about whether the stadium was truly ready to host such a big event.
Extra Support Brought in From Other Venues
In a last-minute effort to save the match, additional resources were brought in from nearby locations. The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association sent two super soppers from Meerut Stadium, and DDCA (Delhi & District Cricket Association) sent outfield covers from Delhi’s Kotla. Despite these efforts, the delay continued, highlighting the lack of preparation by the Greater Noida Authority.
Fans and cricket lovers now wait anxiously, hoping the ground conditions improve, and the historic Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand can finally begin.
