Afghanistan-NZ Test Hampered by Ground Conditions

The one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand at Greater Noida's Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex has been plagued by poor ground conditions due to inadequate drainage and ground staff, despite favorable weather conditions. Criticism has been directed at the Afghanistan Cricket Board for selecting a venue with substandard facilities, leading to the abandonment of play on the first two days. The International Cricket Council (ICC) will review the match referee's report to determine the venue's future for hosting international games. Afghanistan's team faces additional challenges with key player Ibrahim Zadran out due to injury, and star all-rounder Rashid Khan also missing. The match marks New Zealand's first-ever Test against Afghanistan, highlighting the significance of the fixture.