The first T20I between India and Afghanistan in New Delhi will be played as scheduled on September 13, the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) confirmed on Thursday, dismissing reports that the match might be postponed because of security concerns surrounding the BRICS Summit.
The fixture at the Arun Jaitley Stadium had faced uncertainty after reports claimed that Delhi Police had expressed reservations about hosting the match during the September 11–13 summit, when several VVIP movements and extensive security restrictions are expected across the capital.
However, DDCA sources told India Today that they had received no communication or directions to move the match as of 6pm on Thursday. The association subsequently issued an official confirmation that the opening T20I would take place on the scheduled 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 DDCA posted on its official X account.
Several reports had earlier suggested that the series opener could be delayed by a day because of the security and traffic-related complications associated with the summit. The DDCA has now clarified that there is currently no plan to postpone the match.
Bharat Mandapam, where the BRICS Summit will be held, is located roughly five kilometres from the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with the two venues connected by Mahatma Gandhi Road. The presence of multiple VVIP routes during the summit is expected to lead to substantial traffic restrictions in central Delhi.
Schools and government offices will remain closed during the summit, while authorities have issued various advisories concerning road closures and traffic diversions.
The three-match T20I series between India and Afghanistan is scheduled from September 13 to September 17. All three games will be hosted at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, with each match beginning at 7pm IST.
For the time being, the DDCA has confirmed that the series opener will take place as planned despite the heightened security arrangements and traffic restrictions linked to the BRICS Summit.
