The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is thinking about changing the schedule of the upcoming three T20I matches against India. The series is currently set to be played on September 13, 15 and 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The ACB now wants one match to be played on September 14, which is Ganesh Chaturthi.
Why does Afghanistan want a match on September 14?
The ACB feels that September 14 could bring more fans to the stadium because of the Ganesh Chaturthi holiday. The date falls on a Monday. The board believes the holiday could help bring more people to the match even though it is a weekday.
How can the schedule change?
If the BCCI agrees, one of the matches now set for September 13 or September 15 could be moved to September 14. As of now, the three matches are scheduled for September 13, 15 and 17. No final change has been announced yet.
What is happening with the TV broadcast?
The ACB has also started talks with broadcasters for the television coverage of the series. Talks with Sony Sports and Star Sports are reportedly taking place. FanCode is expected to stream the three matches online. ITW Universe will handle the media rights and branding work for the series.
Why are these matches important for India and Afghanistan?
The three T20Is are part of Afghanistan’s home matches under the ICC Future Tours Programme, even though all three games will be played in India. Afghanistan has often hosted its international matches in India. However, this will be the first time Afghanistan hosts India in India. The series will also help both teams prepare for the upcoming Asian Games.
What does this mean for India’s Bangladesh tour?
The India-Afghanistan series also makes India’s proposed Bangladesh tour less likely to happen. India was earlier scheduled to play three ODIs from September 1 to 6 and three T20Is from September 9 to 13 in Bangladesh. However, the series needed approval from the Bangladesh government because of the current situation between the two countries.
When will the final schedule be confirmed?
The September 13, 15 and 17 dates are currently in place, but the ACB wants one match moved to September 14. The final decision will depend on the BCCI and ACB. Until both boards confirm the change, the existing schedule remains in place.
