The opening Twenty20 International of the three-match series between India and Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi has been surrounded by uncertainty following concerns raised by local security and traffic authorities.

Security and logistical challenges tied to the BRICS Summit hosted in the national capital prompted the Delhi Police to request a rescheduling of the encounter. In a formal communication sent by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Central Range, to the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), authorities highlighted major congestion and security hurdles.

According to the Delhi Police's letter, the summit “requires extensive traffic arrangements, including VVIP/VIP route regulation, traffic diversions, route clearance and deployment of personnel for smooth and uninterrupted movement of foreign delegates and associated vehicles.”

The police communication further emphasized: “The cricket match, scheduled on 13-09-2026, is expected to attract around 25000-35,000 spectators. The area around the Arun Jaitley Stadium and DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, Minto Road, Kamala Market and adjoining roads already witness substantial vehicular and pedestrian movement. Additional match-related traffic and parking around BSZ Marg, Mata Sundari College, Raj Ghat and Bal Bhawan are likely to reduce available carriageway and cause congestion.”

DDCA Insists Fixture Will Proceed

Despite the police request, the DDCA announced that the match would take place as originally planned on Sunday, September 13, following discussions with traffic officials.

“India–Afghanistan 1st T20I on 13 September at Arun Jaitley Stadium will go ahead as scheduled. Following a meeting with Delhi Traffic Police, DDCA has been assured of all necessary support and arrangements,” the association stated in a social media update.

However, officials involved in the match operations noted that a schedule modification remains under discussion, with some talks pushing to postpone the contest by a day. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), the host organizers of the series, has not yet officially commented on the situation. The remaining two matches of the series are set to be played on September 15 and September 17.