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The cricketing world is set to witness a historic event as Afghanistan and New Zealand face off in a one-off Test match, marking their first-ever encounter in the longest format of the game.
This milestone match will take place from Monday, September 9 to Friday, September 13, at the Greater Noida Sports Complex, also known as Shaheed Vijay Singh Pratik Sports Complex, in Greater Noida.
A historic occasion for Afghanistan and New Zealand
This Test match is significant not only because it is the first between the two nations but also because it will be the first time the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) hosts New Zealand for a Test match. Afghanistan, a team that has rapidly risen in international cricket, will be led by their experienced captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi. On the other side, the Blackcaps will be captained by the seasoned Tim Southee, bringing a wealth of experience and skill to the field.
AFG vs NZ: Head-to-Head Record in Tests:
Both teams are yet to face each other in the longest format.
AFG vs NZ: Greater Noida Sports Complex Stadium Pitch Report
The surface in Greater Noida is known for its well-rounded pitch, offering a fair contest between bat and ball. Batters can capitalize on their stroke play, finding good value for well-timed shots, while spinners are not left behind, as the surface allows them to extract significant turn and variation. This balanced wicket ensures that both batters and spinners can play pivotal roles, making the conditions ideal for a competitive and engaging Test match.
Also READ: Former Indian batting coach joins New Zealand for the one-off Test against Afghanistan; red-ball legend named spin coach
AFG vs NZ: Greater Noida Weather Forecast:
The weather in Greater Noida for the upcoming one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand from Monday to Friday is expected to vary. On Monday, Day 1, the weather will be cloudy with a high of 32°C and a low of 26°C, with a 10% chance of precipitation and moderate humidity. Scattered thunderstorms are forecasted for Day 2 (Tuesday) and Day 3 (Wednesday), with temperatures ranging between 31°C to 33°C, making the conditions unpredictable. Day 4 (Thursday) will also see scattered thunderstorms, maintaining the pattern of unstable weather. Day 5 (Friday) is expected to have thundershowers with a high of 29°C and a low of 24°C, potentially disrupting play.
AFG vs NZ: One-Off Test, Probable playing XI
Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah, Riaz Hassan, Ikram Alikhel (wk), Shahidullah, Qais Ahmad, Azmatullah Omarzai, Zahir Khan, Zia-ur-Rehman, Nijat Masood
New Zealand: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Tim Southee (c), Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, Matt Henry
