Historic Afghanistan-New Zealand Test called off without toss: Details
The one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand, held in Greater Noida, has made history as the first Test to be abandoned due to rain in Asia. This unprecedented event marks a significant milestone in cricket history, with no play possible throughout the five days. The decision was officially announced on Day 5 morning after continuous rainfall rendered the field unplayable.
Greater Noida's facilities under scrutiny
The match was Afghanistan's first Test at their adopted home ground near New Delhi. The Afghanistan Cricket Board had confirmed that the BCCI, the home cricket board, had offered multiple venues before they chose to zero in on Greater Noida due to its proximity to both Delhi and Kabul. However, the venue's inadequate facilities have come under scrutiny for failing to handle prolonged adverse weather conditions.
Teams' future plans post abandonment
Following the abandoned match, both teams have their schedules lined up. The Afghan team will head to the UAE to host South Africa for three ODIs next week. On the other hand, Team New Zealand is set to travel to Sri Lanka for two Tests before returning to India for three more Test matches in October.
A rare occurrence in Test cricket history
The abandonment of a Test match without a single ball being bowled is a rare occurrence in cricket history. Out of the previous 2,548 Test matches, only seven have been abandoned under such circumstances. The first three instances involved Australia and England in the Ashes series in 1890, 1938, and 1970. The other four instances occurred between 1989 and 1998.
