According to sources in the BCCI, the ICC has given permission for ODIs and T20Is matches between Associate teams as well as matches between Associates and Full Member A teams.
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“Not only they will play their matches here but will also get added support like a chance to get help from top coaches and a chance to rub shoulders with India’s best cricketer’s”. But with the BCCI lending them support, the Afghan board is hopeful of expanding their horizons.
“In this path, we recognized this ground and Greater Noida authorities have been open and cooperative to supply this ground to Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB)”. People will also be able to watch global games in the future.
“This is a historic day for Afghanistan cricket and this will strengthen the relationship between two countries”, he said. It was also cleared to host Associate vs Full Member A team matches.
Shukla too assured that the BCCI and the UPCA will do anything possible to help Afghanistan.
“Firstly I wish to thank BCCI and Greater Noida Authority”.
Afghanistan now have a home ground in India, and given the alternatives and the recognition that cricket possesses in the nation, the day won’t be very far once they truly compete towards a full-member nation, perhaps even India, whereas internet hosting them at this ground.
“However, it needs to meet a few more requirements for hosting an ICC-event match, Greater Noida authorities have ensured us that they will deliver in quick-time so that Afghanistan cricket board can host their future worldwide matches at this ground in Noida”, said BCCI honorary secretary Anurag Thakur. The Afghanistan players will be allowed to train and play matches at the Shahid Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, the BCCI announced on Thursday (December 10). I am happy that the ACB will now make this ground as their home ground. “We were trying a lot from the last few years to get some sort of assistance from BCCI as Afghanistan, you all understand, is an emerging country, which is knocking the door of Test cricket”, Shafiq Stanikzai, CEO ACB, informed media here. On behalf of Chief Minister and Government of Uttar Pradesh, I offer our full support to Afghanistan Cricket Board, and I am thankful to BCCI for facilitating this opportunity.
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The ACB has welcomed this step and has stated that it’ll go a great distance in boosting the connection between India and Afghanistan.
