India and Afghanistan will face each other in a three-match T20I series in September. The series will be special because Afghanistan will officially host India for the first time in international cricket. However, the matches will be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
The three T20Is are scheduled for September 13, 16, and 19. Afghanistan will be the official host despite the matches taking place in India. The arrangement continues because of security concerns in Afghanistan, which have prevented the team from hosting international matches at home for many years.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board has previously hosted home games in Dehradun, Greater Noida, and the United Arab Emirates. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) worked together to organise this historic series in Delhi.
India Hold Strong Record Against Afghanistan in T20Is
The series comes just before the Asian Games, which begin on September 23. Cricket is part of the Games, making this series an important preparation opportunity for both teams. India’s selectors have already received the schedule as they prepare to choose the 15-member squad for the tournament.
India have dominated Afghanistan in T20 internationals. The two teams have met nine times in the format. India have won eight matches, while one game ended without a result.
One of the most memorable clashes came in Bengaluru in January 2024. Both teams scored 212 runs in the match before India secured victory in the Super Over.
Virat Kohli is the highest run-scorer in India versus Afghanistan T20Is. He has scored 225 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 159.57. His unbeaten 122 during the 2022 Asia Cup remains the highest individual score in this rivalry.
The upcoming series is important for both sides. India will use it to fine-tune their combination before the Asian Games, while Afghanistan will enjoy the feeling of hosting a home series, even if it is being played on Indian soil.
