Subpar Facilities and Poor Management Halt Historic Test Match
The much-anticipated one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand faced a disastrous start at Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. Despite clear weather, no play was possible on Day 1 due to deplorable conditions. The outfield remained sodden, and drainage issues led to a day of frustration. Umpires and players, including Tim Southee and Kane Williamson, repeatedly inspected the pitch, but the game never began. The venue’s outdated facilities further complicated matters, with inadequate media and fan amenities. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has criticized the stadium’s poor management and vowed never to return.
