The opening T20I between India and Afghanistan in Delhi is likely to be postponed after the Delhi Traffic Police asked the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) to consider rescheduling the match, citing the upcoming BRICS Summit in the national capital.

The development comes just days before the scheduled match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on September 13. According to a letter written by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic (Central Range), Delhi, the city will already be under heavy security and traffic arrangements because of the BRICS Summit.

DDCA Responds To Reschedule Request

However, the DDCA confirmed that the match will take place as per the schedule, and they also mentioned that they have been assured of all necessary support and arrangements.

BRICS Summit Creates Traffic And Security Challenge

The BRICS Summit is scheduled to take place in Delhi from September 11 to 13, with several foreign delegates, dignitaries and VVIPs expected to be in the national capital.

The Delhi Traffic Police said the summit will require extensive arrangements, including VVIP movement, route regulation, traffic diversions, route clearance and deployment of personnel.

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With these arrangements already in place, holding an international cricket match on the same day could put additional pressure on the police force.

India-Afghanistan Match Expected To Attract 25,000-35,000 Fans

The Traffic Police has also highlighted the expected crowd for the India-Afghanistan T20I.

According to the letter, the match on September 13 is expected to attract around 25,000 to 35,000 spectators.

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The areas around the Arun Jaitley Stadium, including DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, Minto Road and Kamla Market, already experience heavy traffic and pedestrian movement. Match-day traffic and parking could further add to the congestion.

The letter also mentions areas such as Mata Sundari College, Rajghat and Bal Bhawan, where additional traffic and parking could reduce the available road space.

Delhi Police Asks DDCA To Consider New Date

The Traffic Police has now requested the DDCA to consider rescheduling or postponing the September 13 match to a suitable date after the BRICS Summit and the related traffic arrangements are over.

The police said this would allow it to deploy its resources more effectively and ensure the smooth and secure movement of foreign delegates, VVIPs as well as cricket fans and the general public.

The letter was issued with the approval of the Special Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Delhi.