Web Desk
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Bangladesh, with star all-rounder Rashid Khan being left out to prioritize his long-term fitness.
Rashid Khan recently made a comeback in the ODI series decider against Sri Lanka after missing the first two matches due to a lower-back injury. However, the team management and medical staff have decided to rest him for the one-off Test against Bangladesh, scheduled to be held from June 14 to 18.
While Rashid Khan is currently fit, the selectors believe it is crucial not to rush his return and have adopted a cautious approach to ensure his long-term well-being. They want him to have adequate rest and rehabilitation to regain full fitness before Afghanistan’s upcoming series against the BCB Tigers, the ACC Asia Cup, and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2023, as stated by the ACB on Twitter.
Apart from Rashid Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, who missed the third ODI against Sri Lanka due to a groin injury, has also been left out of the squad. He will undergo rehabilitation and remain under close medical observation until his return.
In the meantime, Izharulhaq Naveed, Ibrahim Abdulrahimzai, Nijat Masood, and Karim Janat have all received their maiden Test call-ups for Afghanistan. Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the 15-man squad.
The Afghanistan team is set to arrive in Bangladesh on June 10 for the one-off Test. They will have two tours of Bangladesh this year, with the first being the one-off Test in June, followed by a three-match ODI series and two T20Is in July.
Afghanistan Squad:
Reserves:
