Zubaid Akbari earns his maiden T20I call-up to Afghanistan’s squad following impressive domestic performances. Darwish Rasooli returns while Mujeeb Ur Rahman recovers from injury. Ibrahim Zadran remains unavailable due to surgery recovery. Afghan officials express confidence in the team’s capabilities for the Zimbabwe tour, seeking to build on recent successes. The T20I and ODI fixtures are scheduled for December.
Zubaid Akbari, a promising left-handed batter, has received his first call-up to the Afghanistan T20I squad due to his outstanding domestic performances and significant contributions during the ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Asia Cup. Meanwhile, Darwish Rasooli is set to return to the T20I roster after an impressive domestic season, having successfully led Afghanistan to victory in the Emerging Asia Cup. Additionally, star spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman is back in the team after recovering from an injury and will participate in both formats of the game.
Despite these reinforcements, star opener Ibrahim Zadran will not be part of the squad as he continues recovery from recent ankle surgery. Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) Chief Executive Officer Naseeb Khan expressed optimism regarding the team’s forthcoming tour, stating, “Afghanistan have a strong history in Zimbabwe, and we look forward to another memorable tour. The selected players are ready for the challenge.”
Interim Chief Selector Ahmad Shah emphasized the depth of the squad, noting that Mujeeb’s return is crucial. “Zubaid Akbari and Darwish Rasooli have earned their spots and we wish them success,” he said. Afghanistan recently demonstrated their strength in white-ball cricket by clinching a 2-1 ODI series victory against Bangladesh in Sharjah.
The announcement of the Afghanistan cricket squad for their upcoming tour of Zimbabwe highlights the infusion of new talent and the return of seasoned players. The selection process has been driven by recent domestic performances, particularly in international tournaments like the ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Asia Cup. This tour represents an important opportunity for Afghanistan to build on their recent successes and to integrate emerging players like Zubaid Akbari into the international arena, showcasing the depth in Afghanistan cricket. The management’s confidence in the team’s capabilities suggests a focus on competitive performance against Zimbabwe, as Afghanistan aims to strengthen its position in international cricket.
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s cricket squad for the tour of Zimbabwe has been bolstered by the inclusion of talented players such as Zubaid Akbari and the return of experienced members like Darwish Rasooli and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. The leadership of ACB officials and selectors reflects a strategic approach to maximizing team potential. The upcoming series presents Afghanistan with an invaluable chance to continue their positive trajectory following a successful ODI series against Bangladesh.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
