Afghanistan are set to host India in a historic three-match T20 International series in New Delhi from September 13 to 17, with all three matches scheduled to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
The series will mark the first time Afghanistan formally hosts India in a bilateral cricket series. While Afghanistan have previously used Indian venues, including Greater Noida and Lucknow, for their home fixtures, the upcoming assignment will be their first official bilateral hosting of India.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the dates after reaching an agreement with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). ACB CEO Naseeb Khan communicated the schedule to stakeholders and commercial partners on Monday.
"The ACB hereby confirms
that the India tour of Afghanistan 2026 is scheduled to take place from September 13 to September 17. The dates have been agreed with the BCCI and the venues of the scheduled matches have also been finalised," Khan stated.
India vs Afghanistan T20I Schedule
1st T20I: September 13, 2026 - Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
2nd T20I: September 15, 2026 - Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
3rd T20I: September 17, 2026 - Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
The decision to stage the entire series in New Delhi is understood to be linked to logistical considerations. Despite playing all their matches in India, Afghanistan will retain the distinction of being the designated host for the bilateral series.
The T20Is will also provide both teams with an important opportunity to fine-tune their preparations for the Asian Games cricket competition later in September.
India and Afghanistan had already met in a multi-format assignment earlier in 2026. India came away with a comprehensive result, winning the one-off Test before completing a 3-0 sweep in the three-match ODI series. Shreyas Iyer is expected to lead the Indian team which shall mainly include players who are bound to play in the Asian Games.
