Rain Disrupts Afghanistan vs. New Zealand Test Match

Persistent rain has caused the third day's play of the Afghanistan vs. New Zealand Test to be called off, following the cancellation of the first two days due to wet conditions. Concerns are rising about the match being completely washed out, with more rain predicted.

Persistent rain woes continue to plague the one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand, with the third day's play also being called off without a ball being bowled. The entire match is at risk of being washed out.

The first two days were abandoned due to a wet outfield, raising questions about the venue's preparedness. Given the ongoing bad weather, match officials swiftly ruled out play for Wednesday, and the toss is still pending.

"Afghanistan versus New Zealand Day 3 is called off due to persistent rains. The match will commence with 98 overs from tomorrow if the skies get clear," said the Afghanistan Cricket Board. The BCCI has been assisting by providing extra machinery to improve conditions, but puddles of water remain.

With more rain forecasted, it appears unlikely that the game will proceed. Only seven Test matches in history have been abandoned without play, the last involving New Zealand in 1998. Afghanistan, hosting the game, have played ten Test matches since gaining status in 2017. This is their first encounter with New Zealand in Tests, outside the ICC World Test Championship cycle.

(With inputs from agencies.)