Only three days remain before the start of the T20 series between India and Afghanistan. The opening fixture of the series is scheduled for September 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. However, right before the commencement of the series, major news has emerged indicating that dark clouds are hovering over this opening match. Due to the BRICS summit taking place in Delhi from September 13, there are strong indications of a schedule change, although the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Afghanistan Cricket Board have not yet made any official statement regarding this matter.
BRICS Summit in Delhi clashes with match date
The three-match T20 series, hosted by the Afghanistan Cricket Board, is scheduled to take place in Delhi, with all matches to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The first match was set for September 13, the second for September 15, and the third for September 17, with the schedule having been announced well in advance. However, a complication has arisen. The BRICS summit is scheduled to be held in Delhi from September 11 to 13. During this period, numerous major leaders from across the globe, as well as from within the country, will be present in the city. Consequently, there are apprehensions that the security required for this cricket match may not be adequately provided.
Delhi Police writes letter to DDCA
Amidst these developments, reports have surfaced that the Deputy Commissioner of Delhi Police has written a letter to the Delhi and District Cricket Association. The letter requests that the match be rescheduled to a day other than September 13. On September 13, extensive traffic restrictions and route diversions will be implemented across Delhi. Additionally, an estimated crowd of 20,000 to 25,000 people is expected to attend. Under these circumstances, the primary priority for the police will be the BRICS summit rather than the India versus Afghanistan T20 fixture. Meanwhile, the DDCA responded by stating that this is not solely their event, and if there are any changes to the date, information will be provided at the appropriate time.
Match timing and the decision ahead
The first match of the series is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM in the evening, with the toss taking place half an hour prior at 6:30 PM. If a full 20-over match is played, it is expected to conclude around 10:30 PM. The ball is now in the court of the BCCI. It remains to be seen what joint decision the BCCI and the Afghanistan Cricket Board will reach. Further details can be found on the official ANI X post.
