India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I in Delhi on Sept 13 to go ahead despite BRICS Summit

The first T20I between India and Afghanistan will be played as scheduled at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on September 13, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) said on Thursday, hours after the Delhi Traffic Police asked the cricketing body to consider rescheduling the match due to extensive traffic and security arrangements for the high-profile BRICS Summit.

The Afghanistan-hosted three-match T20I series against India is scheduled to be played in Delhi, with the matches set for September 13, 15 and 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

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DDCA confirms no postponement

Putting an end to uncertainty surrounding the series opener, the DDCA said it had received assurances from the Delhi Traffic Police regarding arrangements for the match.

"India–Afghanistan 1st T20I on 13 September at Arun Jaitley Stadium will go ahead as scheduled," DDCA wrote on X.

"Following a meeting with Delhi Traffic Police, DDCA has been assured of all necessary support and arrangements. No postponement," it added.

The clarification came after the Delhi Traffic Police raised concerns over the match coinciding with the BRICS Summit and requested the DDCA to reschedule the opening T20I.

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BRICS Summit raises traffic and security concerns

The timing of the cricket match has become significant because Delhi is preparing for the BRICS Summit, which is expected to bring heightened security arrangements, movement restrictions and increased traffic management requirements across the national capital.

With high-profile international delegations attending the summit, Delhi authorities are required to make extensive arrangements for the movement of visiting dignitaries. The cricket match, meanwhile, is expected to draw a large number of spectators towards central Delhi and the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

The Delhi Traffic Police's request to reschedule the match was therefore linked to the additional traffic and security pressure expected during the summit period.

India-Afghanistan series schedule

Despite the traffic police's earlier request, the DDCA has now confirmed that the first match will not be postponed.

The three-match T20I series is scheduled as follows:

• 1st T20I: September 13 - Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
• 2nd T20I: September 15 - Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
• 3rd T20I: September 17 - Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi

The series will see Afghanistan formally designated as the host, with all three matches being played in Delhi.

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Match-day arrangements

The DDCA's statement indicates that coordination with the Delhi Traffic Police has taken place to ensure that the cricket match can proceed alongside the security and traffic requirements associated with the BRICS Summit.

For spectators travelling to the Arun Jaitley Stadium on September 13, traffic restrictions, diversions and security checks linked to the summit could affect travel plans. Fans may therefore need to account for additional travel time and follow traffic advisories issued by the authorities.