ACB decision determines whether Greater Noida remain cricketing fold

The recent Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida has raised concerns about the venue’s capability to host international cricket matches. Due to heavy rain and inadequate ground management, not a single ball was bowled over two days, prompting scrutiny from match referee Javagal Srinath regarding the ground’s preparedness.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board chose to hold this match in Greater Noida, despite being offered other options like the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru and Green Park in Kanpur, both of which have superior facilities. This decision now seems questionable, particularly as the venue's infrastructure has not been updated since 2019, when it last hosted domestic matches.

Srinath's forthcoming report will play a crucial role in determining the future of Greater Noida as an international cricket venue. According to the ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, a negative report could lead to the imposition of demerit points for the venue. Accumulating six or more demerit points would result in a 12-month suspension from hosting international matches, putting further pressure on the Afghanistan Cricket Board to reconsider this location for future games.

The venue's deficiencies, including a lack of proper drainage, super sopper, ground staff training, and adequate protection for the outfield, were highlighted by the failed Test match. The current circumstances might make it difficult for the Greater Noida Authority to improve conditions without significant financial support from the BCCI.

In essence, the Test fiasco could signal the end of Greater Noida's aspirations as a host for international cricket unless substantial upgrades are made. The outcome of Srinath's report and the Afghanistan Cricket Board's decisions will determine whether this venue remains in the international cricketing fold or is relegated to a lesser status.