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“Huge Mess, Never Coming Back”: Afghanistan Slam Facilities In Greater Noida As Day 1 Washed Out vs New Zealand | Cricket News
The cricketing world was abuzz with excitement as Afghanistan prepared to face off against New Zealand in a much-anticipated Test match. This was not just any game; it was a historic moment for the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, which was hosting its first-ever Test match. However, the enthusiasm quickly turned into disappointment, not because of the performances on the field but due to the conditions off it.
As reported by NDTV Sports, the Afghanistan cricket team expressed their dismay over the facilities at the stadium, going as far as saying, “Huge mess, never coming back.” This strong reaction came after the first day of the Test was completely washed out, without a ball being bowled, due to a wet outfield. This was not only a blow to the fans who were eagerly waiting for the action to unfold but also raised questions about the stadium’s preparedness for an event of this scale.
ESPNcricinfo echoed these sentiments, describing the debut of Test cricket’s newest venue in Greater Noida as gloomy. The article highlighted the disappointment and frustration that overshadowed what should have been a celebratory occasion. The condition of the ground and its inability to handle the rain effectively led to significant delays, casting a shadow over the event.
Despite the challenges, there was still hope and excitement about the potential of the Afghanistan cricket team. The Times of India quoted Ravichandran Ashwin, who compared young Afghan players to India’s Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif, indicating the talent and promise within the team. This comparison underscored the respect and recognition Afghanistan’s players have earned in the cricketing world, making the facilities debacle all the more disheartening.
Cricbuzz reported that the wet outfield forced the match officials to call off the opening day, further highlighting the logistical issues that plagued the event. This was not the first impression the cricketing community hoped for from a venue making its debut on the international stage.
Times Now provided a more detailed account of the situation, with the Afghanistan team reportedly fuming at the “mismanagement” of the Greater Noida stadium. Their article suggested a profound impact on the team’s experience, with statements like “Will Never Come Here Again” underscoring the depth of their dissatisfaction.
The incident in Greater Noida underscores the importance of infrastructure and logistical preparations in hosting international sporting events. While the talent and excitement around the game continue to grow, the facilities must match this progress to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for players and fans alike. The disappointment surrounding this event will likely prompt a reevaluation of how venues are chosen and prepared for such significant matches in the future.
Key Takeaways
- The first Test match at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida was marred by poor facilities and a wet outfield, leading to the cancellation of the opening day.
- The Afghanistan cricket team expressed severe disappointment, stating they would never return to the venue, highlighting the extent of the mismanagement.
- Despite the off-field issues, the talent and potential of the Afghanistan cricket team were recognized and praised by players like Ravichandran Ashwin.
- The incident emphasizes the crucial role of infrastructure and preparation in successfully hosting international sporting events.
