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The much-anticipated Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand has been marred by controversy even before a single ball has been bowled. The Greater Noida Stadium, chosen as the venue for the match, has been plagued by unfit playing conditions, leading to two days of no play. While rain has undoubtedly played a role, the blame has been squarely placed on the inadequate drainage facilities of the stadium, hindering the ability to get the match underway.
Despite the Sun making an appearance for a significant portion of the second day, the toss couldn't even be conducted as the groundsmen struggled to dry the wet patches on the field. While there have been suggestions that the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) could have opted for a different venue, a board official has revealed that the Noida stadium was their only option.
An anonymous ACB official has asserted that the facilities at the Noida stadium have remained stagnant for years, with Afghanistan's own stadiums boasting superior services. This claim highlights a stark contrast in infrastructure development, raising concerns about the preparedness and standards of the chosen venue. The official's statement, made to The Indian Express before the Test was to commence, further intensifies the criticism directed towards the BCCI's handling of the situation.
The official also disclosed that the ACB had initially sought to host the match at either Lucknow or Dehradun but their requests were rejected by the BCCI. The board cited the hosting of respective T20 leagues in both states as the reason for declining the request, leaving Greater Noida as the only remaining option. This revelation places the BCCI in a precarious position, facing accusations of neglecting the interests of the Afghan team and prioritizing other tournaments.
The current situation presents a bleak outlook for the Test match, with Afghanistan struggling to even secure three full days of play. Persistent showers are still expected in Greater Noida, adding to the possibility of a complete disaster for the fixture. The poor ground conditions and the BCCI's actions have cast a shadow on the match, raising serious questions about the overall organization and management of the event.
Source: "Afghanistan Have Better Facilities": Big Accusation Against BCCI Over Noida Test Fiasco