Shreyas Iyer-led India registered a dominant seven-wicket victory in the series in front of a packed stadium, with Afghanistan playing as the designated hosts on neutral ground in the national capital. \u201cIt was wonderful to see international cricket return to Delhi and, more importantly, to see so many fans come out to support both India and Afghanistan.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cA 28,000-plus crowd created a fantastic atmosphere at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and it was particularly special for the home fans to see India begin the series with a win,\" Jaitley said in a statement at the conclusion of the game.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He also highlighted how hosting Afghanistan\u2019s home series in New Delhi aligns with broader diplomatic ties and expressed gratitude to the leadership at the helm of the sport. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"With Afghanistan playing its home series against India in Delhi, the occasion was a great reflection of the strong bond between the two countries and the power of sport to bring people closer, in line with the Hon\u2019ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi\u2019s vision of stronger ties with our neighbours.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe are also grateful for the support and encouragement from the BCCI and ICC Chairman Jay Shah, which helped make it possible for Delhi to host this bilateral series,\" he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"With Afghanistan playing its home series against India in Delhi, the occasion was a great reflection of the strong bond between the two countries and the power of sport to bring people closer, in line with the Hon\u2019ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi\u2019s vision of stronger ties with our neighbours.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"With the BRICS Summit also concluding in Delhi, it was a special moment for the city to welcome people from across the world through both sport and diplomacy. We look forward to welcoming the teams and fans back for the remaining two T20Is and hope to see the same energy in the stands,\u201d Jaitley concluded.<\/p>\r\n\r\n