Delhi to host Afghanistan-India T20I series in September
Upcoming T20I Series in Delhi
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed that Afghanistan will host India for a three-match T20I series. All three matches are scheduled to take place at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in Delhi. The series is set to run from September 13 to September 17, 2026, forming a part of Afghanistan’s Future Tours Program.
The opening match of the series is slated for September 13, with the second T20I following on September 15, and the final match on September 17. This arrangement means all three encounters will be held at the same venue in Delhi. Afghanistan has frequently utilized India as a venue for its home fixtures in recent years, a practice that continues with this upcoming series.
Mr. Mithun Manhas, President of the BCCI, emphasized the board’s dedication to fostering cricket’s expansion in Afghanistan. He highlighted the importance of providing Afghan players with opportunities to compete at the highest level. Manhas noted that bilateral cricket is crucial for teams to regularly face quality opposition and gain valuable experience. He expressed a desire for continued collaboration, aiming to strengthen the relationship between the two cricketing nations.
Mr. Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary of the BCCI, also voiced his pleasure in supporting the ACB in hosting the T20I series in India. He pointed out that the cricketing rivalry between India and Afghanistan has historically produced exciting contests, featuring talented players from both sides. Saikia remarked on the popularity of Afghanistan’s players among Indian fans, which he sees as a testament to the strong bond between the two countries. He recalled India hosting Afghanistan’s historic first Test in 2018 as a significant milestone in their cricketing journey, noting the consistent bilateral engagements since then.
Strengthening Cricketing Ties
The upcoming series is expected to further enhance the cricketing relationship between India and Afghanistan. The two nations have engaged in regular fixtures across various formats. Most recently, Afghanistan toured India for a three-match ODI series in June 2026, which concluded with India winning 3-0. Additionally, the teams competed in a three-match T20I series in January 2024.
Mr. Mirwais Ashraf, Chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board, underscored the profound importance of this series for Afghanistan cricket. He described it as another vital step in the ongoing development of their long-standing relationship with the BCCI. Ashraf viewed hosting India for a bilateral series within India as a significant achievement for Afghanistan, expressing deep appreciation for the BCCI’s cooperation and support in making the event possible.
Ashraf also explained the decision to host the series in India, noting that Afghanistan has previously used both India and the UAE for its home fixtures. Given the scale and importance of this particular series, he believes India offers an excellent setting for the event. He expressed confidence that the series will generate valuable opportunities across commercial, technical, and cricketing aspects, thereby adding a new dimension to their bilateral engagement. The ACB chairman looks forward to a successful series and further solidifying their partnership with the BCCI.
Mr. Rohan Jaitley, President of the DDCA, conveyed his delight in welcoming both teams to the Arun Jaitley Stadium. He anticipated an exciting T20I series and affirmed the venue’s commitment to providing the best possible facilities and a memorable experience for the teams. Jaitley expressed confidence that the three matches would offer Delhi fans an opportunity to witness thrilling cricket, further enriching the stadium’s history of international matches.
Current Engagements and Future Outlook
While preparations for the T20I series are underway, both national teams are currently involved in other international commitments. Afghanistan is presently competing in a five-match ODI series against Ireland, where they have already secured two victories. Meanwhile, India is set to resume its ICC World Test Championship campaign, with the first Test against Sri Lanka scheduled to commence on August 15.
The consistent bilateral engagements between India and Afghanistan highlight a growing cricketing bond. The upcoming T20I series will mark another chapter in this relationship, following their recent encounters across Test, ODI, and T20I formats. The series is set to begin on September 13, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium.
Source: bcci.tv
