Despite being a sunny day, the drainage facilities at the venue could not soak the burden of overnight rain that left the playing area dampened. There was not a single cover on the ground and super-soppers were at work to make the outfield ready for the play.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, multiple inspections raised the issue of wet outfield and the run-up area for the bowlers which were never deemed fit enough for the toss to take place.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The toss has been scheduled at 9 am Tuesday and the remaining four days will have 98 overs each with an early start at 9:30 am, instead of 10 am. Both teams will hope to start fresh on the second day of the match amid the rains and moderate thunderstorms forecasted for the week.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The current Test is not part of the World Test Championship but the Kiwis have the opportunity to acclimatise to subcontinental conditions ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka and India in the coming months.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On the other hand, Afghanistan, who have played two one-off Tests against Sri Lanka and Ireland earlier this year, are in search of their first red-ball win since 2021.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"About Test cricket, 100% we want to improve. We want to show to the world our best format is Test cricket. And I mentioned before that we accept all kinds of challenges, and I am telling the boys also that these opportunities are very big opportunities for us, each and every one to show our skill, to show our talent and make\u2026 if I am a batsman, make a big score, big runs,\" Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi said on Sunday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On the other hand, Afghanistan, who have played two one-off Tests against Sri Lanka and Ireland earlier this year, are in search of their first red-ball win since 2021.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Also Read: <\/b> Funding For Test Cricket<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n