New Delhi, India — The one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand near New Delhi faced another delay on Tuesday, with the toss still pending, following overnight rain. The match, held at Afghanistan’s adopted home ground in Greater Noida, had already seen the first day’s play abandoned on Monday due to a wet outfield.
Despite clear skies on Tuesday morning, the outfield remained damp after 10 days of continuous rain. Umpires are scheduled to inspect the field at noon (0630 GMT) to determine whether play can begin at the venue, which is hosting its first-ever Test match and lacks advanced drainage systems.
Ground staff worked to address a persistently wet patch in the mid-on area, a trouble spot since day one, by covering it with artificial grass.
Greater Noida has hosted several T20 and one-day internationals since 2017, though the ground is still developing its facilities to meet international standards. This match marks Afghanistan’s 10th Test since gaining full member status in 2017.
Following this Test, Tim Southee’s New Zealand squad will travel to Sri Lanka for two Tests before returning to India for a three-match series.
