Afghanistan Set For Historic Test Match Against New Zealand In Greater Noida

Afghanistan will host New Zealand for a Test match in September at the Shahid Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, according to a report by Times of India. This event marks the first-ever Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand.

New Zealand's decision to play against Afghanistan contrasts with Australia's stance. Australia has refused to participate in three bilateral series against Afghanistan since the Taliban took control in 2021.

Afghanistan will be playing in Greater Noida for the first time since 2020. The Times of India reported on July 21 that the BCCI has approved Afghanistan, now under Taliban rule, to host matches in India after a four-year hiatus.

The BCCI has designated Greater Noida, Kanpur, and Lucknow as Afghanistan's 'home' venues. A source from TOI stated, "Soon after the change in Kabul in 2021, when the Taliban took over, the BCCI was the first cricket board to support Afghanistan."

Initially, Afghanistan was scheduled to play white-ball matches and two Tests in Greater Noida in July. However, the series was postponed due to extreme heat conditions in North India during that period.

Upcoming Matches for New Zealand

New Zealand is also set to play three Test matches against India later this year. The first Test will be held in Bengaluru from October 16 to October 20, followed by Pune from October 24 to October 28, and Mumbai from November 1 to November 5.

This upcoming Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand signifies a significant milestone for both teams. It highlights New Zealand's willingness to engage with Afghanistan despite political changes.