Afghanistan Announces ODI Squad for Bangladesh Series, Welcoming…

The Afghanistan Cricket Board has announced a 19-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh, including Emerging Teams Asia Cup star Sediqullah Atal. Key players Ibrahim Zadran and Mujeeb Ur Rahman are injured and unavailable. The series commences on November 6 in Sharjah, reflecting Afghanistan’s commitment to success in ODI cricket as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy.

On Tuesday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) unveiled a 19-member squad for the highly anticipated three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. Notably, Sediqullah Atal, a promising 23-year-old opener who shone in the Emerging Teams Asia Cup, has been included in the team. This selection comes on the heels of Afghanistan’s recent 2-1 series victory over South Africa in Sharjah, resulting in two new additions: Noor Ahmad and Sediqullah Atal, while Ibrahim Zadran and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have been sidelined due to injuries. Chief Selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil commented on this development, stating, “Ibrahim Zadran is currently undergoing rehabilitation and continues to recover from the surgery he recently had. Mujeeb Ur Rahman also remains unavailable due to ongoing treatment.” He expressed enthusiasm about the inclusion of fresh talent with, “we have included a promising top-order batter in Sediqullah Atal, who has impressed everyone with his consistent top performances.” ACB CEO Naseeb Khan reflected on the success of the year 2024 thus far, noting, “The calendar year 2024 has been action-packed and quite successful for the ACB and the AfghanAtalan lineup, particularly in white-ball cricket. ODI cricket has been a top priority for us as it helps prepare the team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.” He added, “Playing against Bangladesh has always been challenging and full of joy. I believe the group of players selected for this series will perform exceptionally well and bring more glory to our nation.” The series is set to commence on November 6, with the subsequent matches scheduled for November 9 and 11. All games will be hosted in Sharjah. The full squad for the ODI series against Bangladesh comprises: Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper), Abdul Malik, Riaz Hassan, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Bilal Sami, Naveed Zadran, and Farid Ahmad Malik.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has recently announced a 19-member squad poised to compete in a three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. This decision highlights the board’s strategic focus on enhancing the team’s performance in white-ball formats, especially in light of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The inclusion of emerging player Sediqullah Atal indicates the board’s commitment to integrating young talent, building on recent successes, such as their victory over South Africa. Furthermore, the absence of Ibrahim Zadran and Mujeeb Ur Rahman due to injuries underscores the challenges faced by the team as they navigate player fitness while preparing for competitive series.

In conclusion, the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s announcement of the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh marks a significant step in their ongoing development in international cricket. The inclusion of Emerging Teams Asia Cup standout Sediqullah Atal alongside returning player Noor Ahmad aims to bolster the team, especially following the recent injury setbacks of key players Ibrahim Zadran and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. As Afghanistan looks ahead to this series, there is palpable optimism about their potential for continued success in white-ball cricket, emphasizing their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy.

Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com