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AFG Vs NZ: Embarrassing Scenes At Greater Noida Stadium As Groundsmen Do ‘Transplant’ On Day 2

The scenes from AFG vs NZ Test (X.com)The scenes from AFG vs NZ Test (X.com)

In an unfortunate turn of events, the Greater Noida Sports Complex Stadium's ground staff has faced criticism for rushing in last-minute improvisation ahead of the one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand. With rain rendering the outfield unplayable on Day 1, Day 2 was the hope for the match to get underway. 

Wet Patches Cause Further Delays In AFG vs NZ 1st Test

Update: According to the latest update, another inspection is expected to be done at 15:00 IST. Meanwhile, lunch has been taken while the Afghanistan players are still at the team hotel. Despite being bright and sunny since morning, some wet patches at different spots are making it difficult to get the ground ready. 

The men on the ground could not fix the wet outfield and, hence, tried a pretty desperate approach to repair it. They were digging up the soggy mid-wicket area, which had given them bother during the previous day's inspections. Desperately, the staff filled this pit with dry grass taken from the practice nets. As a result, the toss was further delayed from the scheduled 9 AM on Day 2.

Despite the efforts to control the situation, the area in the mid-wicket remained problematic. The umpires had reported the same area on Day 1, which saw the game being called off due to the unplayable conditions. The delays and patchy repairs have only increased the frustration among players and fans.

Historic Significance Of NZ Vs AFG 1st Test

It is the first Test match between New Zealand and Afghanistan, who only became a Test nation back in 2017. Afghanistan have played 10 Tests to date and have lost their last three against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Ireland. 

For New Zealand, this Test is a return to the format for the first time since March and forms part of a busy period in the subcontinent with their schedule building towards a three-Test series against India in October and November.