New Delhi, September 13, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The 28,000-plus crowd at the Arun Jaitley Stadium created a “fantastic atmosphere” for the first T20I between India and Afghanistan, Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) president Rohan Jaitley said on Sunday.
India, led by Shreyas Iyer, began the three-match series with a dominant seven-wicket victory in front of a packed stadium, with Afghanistan playing its designated home series against India at the neutral venue in New Delhi.
Jaitley welcomed the return of international cricket to the national capital and praised supporters for turning out in large numbers to back both teams.
“It was wonderful to see international cricket return to Delhi and, more importantly, to see so many fans come out to support both India and Afghanistan. A 28,000-plus crowd created a fantastic atmosphere at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and it was particularly special for the home fans to see India begin the series with a win,” he said in a statement after the match.
He also highlighted the broader significance of Afghanistan hosting its home series against India in Delhi, describing the occasion as a reflection of the relationship between the two countries and the ability of sport to strengthen people-to-people ties.
“With Afghanistan playing its home series against India in Delhi, the occasion was a great reflection of the strong bond between the two countries and the power of sport to bring people closer, in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of stronger ties with our neighbours,” Jaitley said.
He thanked the BCCI and ICC Chairman Jay Shah for their support in enabling Delhi to host the bilateral series.
Jaitley also noted that the first T20I came as the BRICS Summit concluded in Delhi, bringing together sports and international diplomacy in the capital.
The remaining two T20Is are scheduled to be played in Delhi on Tuesday and Thursday, with Jaitley expressing hope that the teams and fans would return to the stadium in similar numbers and enthusiasm.
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