Afghanistan has named a Test squad for their upcoming series against Zimbabwe, which includes star spinner Rashid Khan, who returns after almost four years. The 18-player squad features seven uncapped players alongside veterans, reflecting a mix of experience and youth. The first Test is set for December 26, 2022, in Bulawayo, highlighting Afghanistan’s efforts to strengthen their Test cricket capabilities.
Rashid Khan, the star spinner of Afghanistan, is poised to make his first Test appearance in nearly four years after being selected in the national squad for a two-match series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. His last Test match for Afghanistan occurred in March 2021 against the same opposition, highlighting his significant absence from red-ball cricket. At the age of 26, Rashid brings experience to a squad that includes seven uncapped players eager to earn their first Test caps in Africa.
Afghanistan’s interim chief selector, Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil, expressed enthusiasm regarding Rashid’s return, emphasizing that it is a positive indication for the future of Afghanistan’s red-ball cricket. He noted that the team underwent extensive preparations recently in Nangarhar province, involving 19 players and coaching staff focused on optimizing the squad’s readiness for the series. Emerging talents such as Sediqullah Atal, Ismat Alam, and Zahir Shehzad will accompany more seasoned players, including captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and vice-captain Rahmat Shah, in this endeavor.
The squad for the series against Zimbabwe comprises 18 players, reflecting a blend of experience and fresh talent: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Ikram Alikhail (wk), Afsar Zazai (wk), Riaz Hassan, Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Baheer Shah Mahboob, Ismat Alam, Azmatullah Omarzai, Zahir Khan, Zia Ur Rehman Akbar, Zahir Shehzad, Rashid Khan, Yamin Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad Afghan, and Naveed Zadran, along with reserves Nasir Jamal, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi, and Ibrahim Abdulrahimzai. The first Test is scheduled from December 26-30, followed by the second Test from January 2-6, both taking place in Bulawayo.
The inclusion of Rashid Khan and the introduction of new players signify a strategic move by Afghanistan’s cricketing authorities to bolster their squad as they aim for competitive performances in Test matches. Rashid Khan’s experience as a veteran of over 200 white-ball games will be instrumental as the team strives for success against Zimbabwe, a squad that has proven to be a challenging opponent in the past.
This upcoming series is pivotal for Afghanistan as they continue to develop their Test cricket capabilities, particularly with the added pressure and expectations surrounding Rashid Khan’s return to the red-ball format. With the combination of seasoned players and emerging talents, Afghanistan is keen to make a statement in this important series.
The article discusses Afghanistan’s Test cricket team’s preparations for their series against Zimbabwe. The return of star spinner Rashid Khan after a significant hiatus is a focal point, as his experience and skills are anticipated to positively influence the team’s performance. The squad also includes several young players who have not yet played Test cricket, indicating the team’s strategy to blend experience with new talent. This series is critical for Afghanistan’s progress in Test cricket and developing their competitive edge.
In conclusion, Rashid Khan’s return to the Afghanistan Test squad is a momentous occasion, bringing experience and expertise as they prepare for a series against Zimbabwe. The inclusion of seven uncapped players demonstrates a commitment to fostering new talent while maintaining a core of experienced cricketers. With significant preparations undertaken, Afghanistan aims to deliver strong performances in their upcoming Tests, marking an important development in their cricketing journey.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
