Dharamsala hosted the first ODI between India and Afghanistan despite significant rain delays, according to Times of India. The match took place at the HPCA Stadium on Saturday, where players engaged in indoor cricket while awaiting weather improvements.
What happened
On May 27, 2026, cricketer Rohit Sharma was the first Indian player to take the field at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala as rain threatened the match. The game faced delays due to relentless precipitation, with the crowd entertained by a DJ as the weather worsened. Eventually, around 4:50 PM, groundstaff managed to prepare the field in just 15 minutes after the rain subsided.
The sub-surface drainage system played a crucial role in this quick turnaround, allowing play to resume swiftly. “The field was game-ready within 20 minutes,” a match official confirmed. This stadium is now only the second in India, after Chinnaswamy Stadium, to utilize such advanced drainage technology.
Despite the benefits, most BCCI state associations have opted for traditional methods like full ground covers. According to reports, “No association is short of funds,” indicating that the reluctance to upgrade may stem from an inadequate prioritization of infrastructure.
Why it matters
Washed-out matches can severely impact cricket’s finances. While comprehensive insurance plans mitigate revenue loss, spectators bear the brunt of these interruptions, often missing out on their paid experience. In this case, the teams involved also lose momentum, which can affect their performance in the long run. The BCCI, having ample resources, faces increasing scrutiny over infrastructure priorities.
Background
The discussion around improved drainage systems gained traction ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup. On May 20, 2026, former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah urged state associations to adopt advanced methodologies. However, many have yet to make the necessary investments to modernize their facilities.
What’s next
As the cricket season progresses, state associations will face pressure to enhance their infrastructure. Specific discussions regarding upgrades are expected in the upcoming BCCI meetings scheduled for June 2026.
