Rashid Khan Makes His Comeback to Afghanistan’s Test Squad for Zimbabwe Series
Rashid Khan will rejoin the Afghanistan test squad for a two-match series against Zimbabwe at the end of December, marking his return after a 2021 hiatus due to injury. Chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil expressed confidence in his inclusion as a sign of progress for Afghanistan’s red-ball cricket. The squad features seven uncapped players, highlighting a strategy to strengthen the team.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced on Monday that Rashid Khan, one of the nation’s leading spin bowlers, will rejoin the test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Zimbabwe, which is set to commence later this month in Bulawayo. This marks Rashid’s return to the test format after a hiatus that began in March 2021, following his last appearance in a test match against Zimbabwe due to a recurring groin injury.
The leg-spinner has been an influential player for Afghanistan’s white-ball formats, contributing significantly to the team’s success in reaching the semi-finals of the recent T20 World Cup. Chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil expressed optimism regarding Rashid’s inclusion, stating, “Rashid Khan returns to the test squad, which is a promising sign for our red ball game going forward.”
In preparation for the series, Afghanistan has included seven uncapped players in their squad, acknowledging their commendable performances in domestic competitions. Among those selected are all-rounder Ismat Alam, left-arm spinner Zahir Shehzad, and left-arm fast bowler Bashir Ahmad Afghan. The announced squad consists of captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, along with various other skilled players ready to compete on the international stage.
Rashid Khan, known for his exceptional leg-spin bowling, is a key player for Afghanistan’s cricket team. His previous absence from test cricket was due to injury concerns, leading him to focus on limited-overs formats. The significance of his return to the test side lies in his experience and ability to influence matches, particularly as Afghanistan aims to improve its standing in the red-ball format. The inclusion of numerous new players indicates a strategic move to build depth and enhance competitiveness in upcoming international fixtures.
Rashid Khan’s return to the Afghanistan test squad signifies a critical development for the team’s ambitions in test cricket. His experience, combined with the inclusion of several promising younger players, positions Afghanistan to potentially strengthen their performance in the red-ball format. The upcoming series against Zimbabwe will serve as an important test for both Rashid and the team at large as they strive to make a mark in international test cricket.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
