The second day of the only Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand in Greater Noida was abandoned, just like the first, due to persistent rain and an unplayable outfield. The match had already lost one day, and hopes for a prompt start on day two were dashed.
Although the toss was scheduled for 9:00 am, half an hour earlier than usual to compensate for the previous day’s loss, the conditions at the ground remained unfit for play. An inspection was planned for noon after the 8:55 am announcement of the delay.
A broadcast message at 9:10 am confirmed that heavy rain, lasting for 90 minutes from 6:00 pm the previous evening, had left the outfield severely waterlogged. Despite some sunshine, the moisture underfoot posed a significant challenge, reducing any hopes for play by noon.
Ground staff used electric fans to dry patches on the field and attempted to transplant dry grass from the practice nets onto a damp area within the 30-yard circle. However, these efforts proved insufficient, and another inspection was scheduled for 3:00 pm.
New Zealand’s players arrived at the ground around 12:25 pm. While waiting for play to resume, they made use of a practice net set up beside the main pitch. Spinners Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner bowled, and fast bowlers joined them. Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell also practiced. In contrast, Afghanistan’s players did not turn up at the venue.
At 2:55 pm, it was officially announced that play would not resume for the second day, with the toss yet to occur.
