‘Honor to play here’ – Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi on facing New Zealand in Greater Noida

Afghanistan Team. (Photo Source: ACB/Twitter)

The Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground is set to host a historic one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand, starting from September 9. Afghanistan’s skipper, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed his excitement about the upcoming match.

“It is an honor to play in Greater Noida and be part of such a historic moment for the city. We look forward to our days in the city with a lot of love from cricket fans who we know are here in plenty,” Shahidi was quoted as saying by TOI.

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The Afghan team has practiced on this ground before and is well-versed in the conditions. Shahidi mentioned that he is excited to see Indian fans cheering for the side. Interestingly, the match is expected to draw over 10,000 spectators and he is optimistic that his side will get favourable result.

“We have practiced here in the past and it is a privilege playing in the city again in front of these stands. Indian fans are someone we really look forward to seeing and we hope they will show up in force. This match presents a wonderful opportunity for us to bring pride and glory to our nation, and we look forward to doing so in front of such passionate fans,” he added.

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The Kiwi side landed in Delhi on September 6 and have already begun their practice with the players hitting the nets. New Zealand have brought in Sri Lankan great Rangana Herath and former India batting coach Vikram Rathour as coaches for the series. Meanwhile, former India coach R Sridhar has joined the Afghanistan team as an Assistant Coach.