India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I: Delhi Match Confirmed for September 13, DDCA Rules Out Change

The India-Afghanistan first T20I in New Delhi will go ahead as scheduled on September 13.

The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) confirmed on Thursday, ending speculation that the match could be postponed due to security concerns surrounding the BRICS Summit.

The Arun Jaitley Stadium fixture had come under uncertainty after reports suggested that Delhi Police had raised concerns about conducting the match amid heightened security measures and VVIP movement linked to the summit, scheduled from September 11 to 13.

DDCA sources told India Today that the association had received no communication or instructions to shift the match as of 6pm on Thursday. The DDCA later officially confirmed that the series opener would be held on its original date.

“India–Afghanistan 1st T20I on 13 September at Arun Jaitley Stadium will go ahead as scheduled. Following a meeting with Delhi Traffic Police, DDCA has been assured of all necessary support and arrangements. No postponement,” the association said in a post on X.

Reports had earlier suggested that the match could be pushed back by a day because of anticipated traffic restrictions and security challenges in the capital. The DDCA, however, has ruled out any postponement at this stage.

The BRICS Summit will be held at Bharat Mandapam, located roughly five kilometres from the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The proximity of the two venues is expected to result in heightened security and traffic restrictions, particularly along major VVIP routes in central Delhi.

Authorities have announced traffic diversions and other restrictions for the summit period. Schools and government offices will also remain closed during the event.

The three-match T20I series between India and Afghanistan is scheduled from September 13 to 17, with all three games to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Each match is scheduled to begin at 7pm IST.

For now, the DDCA has confirmed that the series opener will take place as planned, despite the extensive security arrangements and traffic restrictions associated with the BRICS Summit.