New Delhi: Afghanistan is set to host India in a three match T20 International series later this year, marking a historic first in bilateral cricket relations between the two nations. However, despite Afghanistan being the designated host, all matches are expected to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
According to reports, the series is likely to be held in September and is expected to serve as an important preparatory assignment for both teams ahead of the Asian Games. Discussions between the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are understood to have progressed positively, with Delhi emerging as the preferred venue for the three T20Is.
The proposed series will be significant for Afghanistan cricket as it will be the first occasion on which the country officially hosts India in an international bilateral series. Due to the absence of regular international cricket infrastructure and security related challenges at home, Afghanistan has often staged its home fixtures in foreign countries, including India and the United Arab Emirates.
Reports suggest that September 13, 16 and 19 are being considered as tentative dates for the matches, although an official schedule is yet to be announced by the respective cricket boards. The series is expected to provide valuable match practice for both sides in the shortest format of the game.
India and Afghanistan share a strong cricketing relationship. The two teams most recently met in a bilateral T20I series in early 2024, while Afghanistan has also emerged as a competitive force in world cricket following its impressive performances in ICC tournaments over the past few years. The upcoming contest is expected to attract significant attention from fans given the growing stature of Afghanistan cricket and India’s dominance in the format.
The Arun Jaitley Stadium, one of India’s most iconic cricket venues, has hosted several high profile international matches and is expected to witness packed crowds if the series receives final approval.
While official confirmation is awaited, the proposed T20I series is being viewed as another important step in strengthening cricketing ties between the two neighbouring nations and providing fans with an exciting contest ahead of a busy international calendar.