Afghanistan’s regular T20I captain, Rashid Khan, will be absent from the upcoming three-match IND vs AFG T20I series against India, as confirmed by captain Ibrahim Zadran. This announcement follows Rashid Khan’s ongoing recovery from a recent back surgery. Earlier ACB reported of his potential unavailability despite naming him in the squad for the series in India
A lower-back surgery undergone a couple of months ago had sidelined the 25-year-old leg-spinner from the recent T20I series against the United Arab Emirates and the Big Bash League as well.
“He is not totally fit, but is travelling with the team,” Zadran was quoted saying by Sportstar. “We hope that he gets fit as soon as we expect him to. He’s doing his rehab with the doctor, and we will miss him in the series…”
Without Rashid, there are a few players that we have trust in. I can say, they will play good cricket,” Zadran said. “Others have also played a lot of cricket and I am sure they will perform well. Without Rashid, we will struggle because his experience is crucial to all of us, but this is cricket and you need to be ready for any kind of situation…” he added.
With Rashid Khan unavailable, the spin department for Afghanistan will be led by Noor Ahmad and Mujeeb-ur-Rahman. Additionally, the ‘most experienced’ Mohammed Nabi will also be an option for selection.
“Nabi is the most senior guy in our team and he should play. He has lots of experience,” Zadran said.
Afghanistan Squad for 3-match IND vs AFG T20I Series vs India
Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ikram Alikhil (WK), Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Azmaullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad, Naveen Ul Haq, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Saleem, Qais Ahmad, Gulbadin Naib and Rashid Khan.
