Rain Disrupts Historic New Zealand vs Afghanistan Test

No play was possible on the opening day of the one-off Test between New Zealand and Afghanistan due to a wet outfield. Despite multiple inspections, the ground conditions were unfit for play. Rain and thunderstorms are forecasted throughout the week, possibly impacting the entire match.

No play was possible on the opening day of the one-off Test between New Zealand and Afghanistan due to a wet outfield here on Monday.

Despite multiple inspections by match officials, conditions remained unfit for play. While there was no rain on the day, the ground, lacking a modern drainage system, was saturated from heavy rains over the past week. With rain and thunderstorms forecasted through the week, the extent of the disruption to the Test match remains uncertain.

This historic Test marks the first-ever match between New Zealand and Afghanistan in this format. Afghanistan earned their Test status in 2017 and have played 10 matches so far, suffering defeats in their last three against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Ireland. For New Zealand, this match begins their first Test since March, setting the stage for a busy series of games in the subcontinent, culminating with a three-Test series against India in October-November.

(With inputs from agencies.)