Pathetic Drainage System: Fans as Australia-Afghanistan Game Abandoned
The ICC Champions Trophy 2018 has finally kicked off, and the excitement was palpable as the world witnessed some thrilling matches. However, the excitement was short-lived as the match between Australia and Afghanistan at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium was abandoned due to heavy rainfall. The no-result outcome has left fans and commentators alike fuming, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing the wrath of criticism.
The match was supposed to be a crucial one, with Australia looking to make a comeback in the tournament after their dismal performance in the group stages. Afghanistan, on the other hand, was looking to make history by winning their first-ever Champions Trophy match against a top-tier team. However, the rain had other plans, and the match was eventually called off due to the poor drainage system at the stadium.
Fans took to social media to express their frustration and disappointment, with many criticizing the PCB for their lack of preparedness. “Pathetic drainage system. Pakistan is hosting ICC tournament and their premium ground couldn’t handle 30 minutes of rainfall,” a fan tweeted. Another fan echoed the sentiment, saying, “Have some shame, PCB! You can’t even handle a little rain. What’s the point of having a top-notch stadium if you can’t provide a decent playing surface?”
The criticism didn’t go unnoticed, with many experts and former cricketers also weighing in on the issue. “The Gaddafi Stadium is one of the best grounds in the world, but it’s shocking to see the drainage system is so poor,” said former Pakistan captain, Ramiz Raja. “It’s unacceptable that the PCB couldn’t prepare the ground properly for a match of this magnitude.”
The match’s abandonment has also had a significant impact on the tournament’s schedule, with the semifinals now pushed back by a day. This has resulted in a logistical nightmare for the organizers, with many teams and fans having to adjust their plans at short notice.
The poor drainage system is not a new issue at the Gaddafi Stadium. In the past, matches have been delayed or abandoned due to waterlogging on the pitch. However, it’s surprising that the PCB didn’t take adequate measures to rectify the issue before hosting a major tournament like the Champions Trophy.
The PCB has come under intense scrutiny for their lack of preparedness, and it’s clear that they have a lot of work to do to regain the trust of fans and players alike. In a statement, the PCB said, “We are disappointed that the match had to be abandoned due to the rain. We are working on improving the drainage system at the stadium, and we will make sure that it’s ready for the next match.”
However, for fans and experts alike, it’s too little, too late. The damage has been done, and the PCB’s reputation has taken a significant hit. As one fan summed it up, “The Pakistan Cricket Board needs to take a long, hard look at themselves and ask what they’re doing wrong. This is not the way to host a major tournament.”
In conclusion, the abandonment of the Australia-Afghanistan match due to the poor drainage system at the Gaddafi Stadium is a wake-up call for the PCB. They need to take immediate action to rectify the issue and regain the trust of fans and players alike. As the tournament continues, the PCB will need to work hard to ensure that the remaining matches are played to their highest standard.
