Introduction
The Afghanistan cricket team is gearing up for a historic Test match against New Zealand, set to take place on September 9 at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has graciously extended its support by allocating three venues for Afghanistan’s matches—Greater Noida, Kanpur, and Lucknow. However, an unexpected twist has arisen as Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, recently voiced his concerns about the team’s preparation amidst adverse weather conditions.
Weather Woes Affecting Preparations
Recent heavy rains in the Delhi-NCR region have severely hampered the Afghan players’ ability to practice effectively. Reports indicate that training pitches are currently waterlogged, creating significant challenges for the team. Furthermore, the absence of super-soppers or covers has compounded these issues, leaving players feeling frustrated as they struggle to prepare adequately for the upcoming match.
Captain Shahidi’s Surprising Remarks
In light of the unfavorable conditions, Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi made a tongue-in-cheek comment about the situation, bluntly stating, “We should have brought our swimming gear. It’s a great place for swimming. We (Afghanistan) are used to such issues, but how will we respond to the Kiwis?” This remark not only highlights the team’s predicament but also emphasizes the contrasting experiences the players might face as they prepare for a high-stakes international match.
Importance of the Upcoming Test Match
This upcoming Test match marks the first-ever encounter between Afghanistan and New Zealand in this format, making it a momentous event for both teams. The Afghanistan squad consists of 20 players, but prior to the match, the final lineup of 15 players will be determined after a week of fitness and training sessions.
New Zealand’s Upcoming Visit
Meanwhile, the New Zealand team is scheduled to arrive in India next week as they prepare for this crucial match. For them, this Test is not only a chance to face Afghanistan but also serves as a preparation step for their Test Series against India later in October.
Conclusion
As the Afghanistan cricket team braves the challenges posed by weather conditions, the focus remains on their upcoming Test match against New Zealand. With the hopes and expectations of a nation resting on their shoulders, the Afghan players are determined to showcase their skills on the international stage, and despite the hurdles, they aim to make their debut a memorable one.
