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Test Debut Delayed at Greater Noida: Afghanistan vs New Zealand Test Struggles with Wet Outfield
The Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida is yet to make its Test debut, as the opening match between Afghanistan and New Zealand has faced significant delays. For the second consecutive day, ground staff were engaged in an intense effort to tackle the wet outfield, a situation that has drawn considerable attention due to the match being abandoned on the first two days.
Day 2: No Play, Just Preparations
On the second day of the Test, there was no play despite a brief spell of rain the previous evening. The lack of cricket action highlights the inadequate preparation of the ground to host an international Test match. New Zealand’s players arrived for a short practice session but chose to stay off the main outfield, instead practicing on a separate pitch. Afghanistan’s team did not appear on the field on Day 2, further compounding their issues as Ibrahim Zadran was ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained from slipping on the wet surface.
Discussions were held between the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA), which manages the ground. These talks were centered on addressing the outfield issues, which had become apparent due to inadequate drainage.
Issues with the Outfield and Drainage
The primary issue with the outfield has been its poor drainage. The surface, which is clay-based, is not suitable for quick water runoff. Typically, non-premier grounds in India use a mix of clay and sandy loam to reduce costs. However, the high clay content has led to water accumulating in the soil, creating persistent damp spots. This issue has been exacerbated by a week of rainfall leading up to the Test.
On Day 2, ground staff focused on two main problem areas: one on the eastern side and another on the western side of the square. The eastern area was particularly problematic, requiring emergency repairs and replacement of wet grass. Pedestal fans were employed to dry the western side, but progress was slow.
Venue Selection and Preparation Concerns
The ACB chose Greater Noida over other venues like Kanpur and Bengaluru, citing better connectivity and familiarity. However, the venue’s preparation has been lacking, with insufficient covers to protect the outfield and no recent experience in hosting international cricket. The last international match at this venue was held in 2020.
Future Prospects and Weather Forecast
As the third day of the Test has also been called off due to continued wet conditions and heavy rain early in the morning, the prospects for the remaining days look bleak. With forecasts indicating further rain on Day 4, it is possible that the Test could end without any play. If this happens, it will join the list of rare instances in India where international matches were abandoned without a ball being bowled.
BCCI’s Role and Ground Conditions
It’s important to note that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not responsible for the current conditions at Greater Noida. The venue was selected by the ACB for its proximity to Kabul. The ongoing weather and drainage issues underscore the challenges faced by grounds with inadequate infrastructure.
