Afghanistan’s spin wizard Rashid Khan is set to make a much-anticipated return to ODI cricket after a lengthy absence. The legspinner has been named in the 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match series against South Africa in the UAE, starting on September 18.
Khan’s return is a major boost for Afghanistan, who have been without his services since the World Cup last October-November. The 24-year-old underwent back surgery after the tournament and has since been restricted to T20 cricket.
However, Afghanistan will still be without mystery spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who is still recovering from a finger injury. Wristspinner Noor Ahmad has also been left out of the squad. Chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil said offspinner AM Ghazanfar will cover for Mujeeb against South Africa.
Despite the absence of Mujeeb and Noor, Rashid’s return provides a significant boost to Afghanistan’s bowling attack. The legspinner has been in impressive form in T20 cricket since his comeback, taking 20 wickets in 15 matches in the IPL, T20 World Cup, and MLC.
Afghanistan have also called up uncapped medium-pace bowler Bilal Sami, and top-order batters Darwish Rasooli and Abdul Malik for the ODIs against South Africa. Rasooli has played seven T20Is, Malik has played two Tests, while Sami is yet to represent Afghanistan in any format.
Malik has been called up as cover for the injured opening batter Ibrahim Zadran, who is ruled out with an ankle sprain.
The three-match ODI series against South Africa will be Afghanistan’s first bilateral ODI series against the Proteas. It will also serve as preparation for the Champions Trophy early next year, for which Afghanistan qualified by finishing sixth in the league stage of the 2023 World Cup.
