Afghanistan to host India in Delhi
Afghanistan is set to host India for a three-match T20I series at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in Delhi. The series, confirmed by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), will take place from September 13 to September 17, 2026. All three matches are scheduled to be played at the same venue in Delhi.
This upcoming series is part of Afghanistan‘s Future Tours Program. India has served as the home ground for Afghanistan‘s international fixtures in recent years. The first T20I is slated for September 13, followed by the second on September 15, and the third on September 17.
Strengthening cricketing ties
The series aims to further develop the cricketing relationship between the two nations. Mr. Mithun Manhas, President of the BCCI, expressed the board’s commitment to supporting the growth of cricket in Afghanistan. He highlighted the importance of bilateral cricket in providing players with opportunities to compete against quality opposition and gain valuable experience.
Mr. Manhas also stated that the BCCI looks forward to collaborating with the ACB to ensure the series’ success and believes there is potential for increased cooperation between the two cricketing bodies. He emphasised the goal of strengthening the relationship between the two nations through such engagements.
Mr. Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary of the BCCI, echoed these sentiments, noting the thrilling encounters that have characterised the India-Afghanistan cricketing rivalry. He mentioned the popularity of Afghanistan‘s players among fans in India, which reflects the strong bond that has formed between the two countries.
Mr. Saikia recalled India hosting Afghanistan for their historic first Test in 2018 as a significant milestone. He also pointed out that the two teams recently competed in a Test and ODI series in June 2026, and this upcoming T20I series will mean they have now faced each other across all three formats of the game.
Significance for Afghanistan cricket
Mr. Rohan Jaitley, President of the DDCA, conveyed his delight in welcoming both teams to the Arun Jaitley Stadium. He expressed confidence that the three matches would offer fans in Delhi an opportunity to witness exciting cricket and contribute to the venue’s rich history of international matches.
Mr. Mirwais Ashraf, Chairman of the ACB, underscored the significant importance of this series for Afghanistan cricket. He described it as another crucial step in the ongoing development of the long-standing relationship with the BCCI. Hosting India for a bilateral series in India is considered a significant achievement for Afghanistan.
Mr. Ashraf acknowledged and valued the cooperation and support from the BCCI in making the event possible. He noted that Afghanistan has previously hosted its home fixtures in both India and the UAE. Given the scale of this series, India is seen as an excellent setting for the event.
The ACB Chairman expressed confidence that the series will generate valuable opportunities across commercial, technical, and cricketing aspects, adding a new dimension to their bilateral engagement. The ACB looks forward to a successful series and to further strengthening its partnership with the BCCI.
The two sides have regularly played against each other, including a three-match ODI series in June 2026, which India won 3-0. Additionally, they played a three-match T20I series in January 2024. Afghanistan is currently involved in a five-match ODI series against Ireland, having secured two victories in that contest.
Source: bcci.tv
