Afghanistan has announced a 16-member squad for their historic Test debut against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on September 9 in Greater Noida.
This landmark match marks a new chapter for Afghan cricket as they prepare to step into the Test cricket arena against one of the most established teams in world cricket.
The Afghan squad will be led by their experienced wicketkeeper-batter, Hashmatullah Shahidi. Shahidi, who has captained Afghanistan in three previous Test matches, will be tasked with leading his side in this significant moment.
Joining him in the squad are prominent names such as Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, and the all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai. However, a few notable players, including Afghanistan’s star all-rounder Rashid Khan, have been left out of the squad for various reasons.
Rashid Khan, who has been a pivotal figure in Afghanistan’s rise in world cricket, is missing out due to medical advice. He recently underwent back surgery, and as a result, his doctors have recommended that he avoid long-format cricket for at least a year.
Additionally, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Karim Janat have not been included in the squad. Gulbadin Naib, another experienced campaigner, was part of the preliminary selection but did not make the final cut for this historic encounter.
The squad comprises a blend of youth and experience, as Afghanistan looks to make a strong impression in their maiden Test against a strong New Zealand side.
Afghanistan’s squad includes players like Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Baheer Shah Mahboob, and Abdul Malik, adding depth to their batting lineup. Spin will be a key part of Afghanistan’s strategy, with the inclusion of Zahir Khan, Qais Ahmad, and Shams Ur Rahman.
On the other hand, New Zealand is also well-prepared, having strengthened their coaching staff for this series. Notably, former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath has been brought in as the spin bowling coach for the next three Tests, while Vikram Rathour, the former Indian batting coach, has joined the team for the Afghanistan series.
Afghanistan’s squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Abdul Malik, Riaz Hassan, Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Baheer Shah Mahboob, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Shams Ur Rahman, Zia Ur Rahman Akbar, Zahir Khan Pakteen, Qais Ahmad, Khalil Ahmad, Nijat Masood.
