AFG Vs NZ Test: Outfield Dug Up In Bizarre Move To Fix Wet Patch In Greater Noida

Groundsmen prepare the field with artificial grass before the start of the one-off Test cricket match between Afghanistan and New Zealand at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida on September 10, 2024

Weather continued to play a spoilsport to the historic one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand at the Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground, a venue making its Test debut.

After the wet outfield didn’t let a single over being bowled on day one, day two of the Test has been delayed due to overnight rain again.

However, it’s worth noting that the skies are clear, and the persistent delay is because of the damp outfield. The toss is yet to happen, with the next inspection being at 12 pm local time.

There have also been several reports of mismanagement and lack of basic facilities at the venue by reporters present there. The ground staff dug up a wet patch in the outfield – a cause of concern since day one – and have been attempting to cover it with artificial grass and using fans to dry the surface.

According to reporters present at the venue, both teams are still in the hotel and haven't reached the ground.

Not a good morning from Greater Noida! They have dug a part of the midwicket area and are trying to fix it with some dry patches of grass and soil. Something new I have seen in cricket.#AFGvNZ pic.twitter.com/46ZwYZoqmQ
— Daya sagar (@sagarqinare) September 10, 2024

Now, they are bringing dry grass patches to fill the dug area and on the other side they have brought fans to dry the damp patches. Teams are still in the hotel. 12pm is inspection time!#NZvAFG https://t.co/h201nuzRTQ pic.twitter.com/oMLl5eByuK
— Daya sagar (@sagarqinare) September 10, 2024

Find the latest weather report of the match here.

This will be Afghanistan’s 10th match in the longest format and third in 2024 – the most they have played in a calendar year. After the series, New Zealand will fly out to Sri Lanka for two Tests, starting September 18, before coming back to the country to play three Tests against India, starting October 16.

Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.