Rashid Khan returns to the Afghanistan Test squad for the series against Zimbabwe, set to begin on December 26. The squad features seven uncapped players, with interim chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil expressing optimism about the team’s preparation and potential. The series consists of two Tests held in Bulawayo, with Rashid Khan’s return marking a significant moment for Afghanistan cricket.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board has announced its squad for the upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe, which marks the return of star leg-spinner Rashid Khan. Khan last competed in a Test match in March 2021 against Zimbabwe, and now, at age 26, he is included in the 18-player squad set to commence the two-match series on December 26 in Bulawayo. Though Rashid has an illustrious career with over 200 appearances in white-ball formats, his experience in Test cricket is limited to five matches, wherein he has taken 34 wickets at an average of 22.35.
Rashid’s inclusion brings significant experience to a squad that also features seven aspiring players, including top-order batter Sediqullah Atal, fast bowling all-rounder Ismat Alam, and left-arm spinner Zahir Shehzad, all of whom are eager to claim their first Test cap in Africa. Afghanistan’s interim chief selector, Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil, expressed enthusiasm over Rashid’s return, viewing it as a positive development for the team’s future in long-format cricket.
He commented, “Rashid Khan returns to the Test squad, which is a promising sign for our red ball game going forward.” Moreover, the team has been well-prepared, having trained in Nangarhar province recently. The selector also noted that the squad selection considered several new entrants who performed admirably in the Ahmad Shah Abdali FC Tournament.
The series is scheduled as follows: the first Test will take place from December 26 to 30, followed by the second Test from January 2 to 6, both in Bulawayo. The complete Afghanistan Test squad includes Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Ikram Alikhail (wicketkeeper), and many others, with reserves also mentioned.
This announcement signals Afghanistan’s intent to strengthen their Test cricket profile, particularly with the excitement surrounding Rashid’s comeback.
Rashid Khan is a prominent figure in Afghanistan cricket, renowned for his exceptional skills in the white-ball formats. Having previously not participated in red-ball cricket since March 2021, his return is eagerly anticipated by fans and cricket analysts alike. The forthcoming series against Zimbabwe provides a crucial platform for both seasoned and emerging players to showcase their talents, particularly in Test cricket, which traditionally requires different skill sets compared to limited-overs formats. The inclusion of seven uncapped players indicates Afghanistan’s commitment to developing new talent while building a competitive squad for this important series.
The reinstatement of Rashid Khan in the Afghanistan Test squad, alongside the introduction of fresh talent, illustrates a strategic approach to enhancing the team’s performance in the longer format of the game. With the series against Zimbabwe on the horizon, Afghanistan is positioned to make significant strides in their Test cricket journey. The excitement surrounding the upcoming matches cannot be understated, as both experienced and new players aim to contribute to the team’s success on the international stage.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com