Mullanpur gears up for maiden Test as India face Afghanistan

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) has finalized preparations for the historic Test match between India and Afghanistan, scheduled to be played from June 6 to June 10 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. The match will mark the first-ever Test fixture at the venue, making it a significant milestone for Punjab cricket.

PCA Secretary Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer said the upcoming contest would be a landmark occasion not only for the stadium but also for cricket lovers across the state. He noted that Mullanpur would become the 31st Test venue in India and only the third venue in Punjab to host a Test match after Mohali and Jalandhar. According to him, the opportunity reflects the growing stature of the stadium and the state’s cricketing infrastructure.

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Both the Indian and Afghan teams have already arrived in Chandigarh and have begun practice sessions at the venue. Officials said all logistical and operational arrangements have been completed, including player facilities, security measures, spectator management, and broadcasting infrastructure, to ensure the smooth conduct of the five-day international fixture.

In a move aimed at encouraging maximum public participation, ticket prices for the match have been kept affordable, with entry tickets starting at Rs 250. One of the major attractions for spectators is that a single ticket will remain valid for all five days of the Test match. Fans will have the freedom to attend the entire day’s play or visit the stadium during any session of their choice throughout the match.

Meet Hayer said the PCA wanted cricket enthusiasts from across Punjab and neighbouring states to witness the traditional format of the game in a world-class facility. He particularly appealed to parents to bring their children to the stadium during the ongoing summer vacations so that young fans could experience international cricket from close quarters and watch top players in action.

He said exposure to live international matches can inspire youngsters to take up the sport and better understand the nuances of Test cricket, which remains the most prestigious format of the game. The PCA expects a strong turnout from families, students, and cricket followers during the five-day encounter.

The match also holds special significance for Punjab cricket, with Punjab’s star batter Shubman Gill set to lead the Indian Test side. Gill’s appointment as captain has generated considerable excitement among local fans, who will have an opportunity to watch one of the state’s most prominent cricketers lead the national team on home turf.

Adding to the local interest, Punjab cricketer Gurnoor Brar has also been included in the Indian squad. PCA officials expressed confidence that the presence of Punjab players in the national team would further boost spectator interest and create a vibrant atmosphere at the stadium throughout the match.

The Mullanpur stadium, which has already hosted several high-profile domestic and international white-ball fixtures, is now preparing to enter a new chapter by staging its first Test match. Cricket administrators believe the successful hosting of the fixture could pave the way for more red-ball international matches in the region in the future.

With teams already engaged in training sessions and anticipation building among cricket fans, the stage is set for a memorable occasion as Mullanpur joins the list of India’s prestigious Test venues. Officials have urged supporters to attend in large numbers and be part of a historic moment for Punjab cricket.