For the first time in Afghanistan's cricket history, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced that they will host two top-tier cricket nations, New Zealand and South Africa, for a series on home soil. This milestone marks a significant achievement for Afghanistan, which has risen from modest beginnings to become a formidable presence in international cricket.
Despite facing challenges such as political instability and limited resources, the Afghanistan cricket team has made tremendous progress, earning admiration and support from fans across the globe.
As the team continues to reach new milestones, the ACB is dedicated to strengthening its ties with other cricket-playing nations. In a groundbreaking announcement, the ACB confirmed through a video that Afghanistan will host New Zealand and South Africa on home turf for the first time in their cricketing history.
Notably, Afghanistan and New Zealand were initially scheduled to play a one-off Test match in Noida, which may now be relocated to Afghanistan. Additionally, Afghanistan will face South Africa in a historic ODI series, marking the first bilateral series between the two countries.
This development is a source of immense pride not only for Afghan cricket but for the entire nation. It presents an opportunity for the ACB to demonstrate its infrastructure, organisational skills, and the fervour of Afghan cricket fans. This move is anticipated to attract more international cricket to Afghanistan.
Rashid Khan to Miss Upcoming Test Matches
Afghanistan's captain and renowned spinner Rashid Khan has been left out of the preliminary squad for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. Reports suggest that Khan is likely to remain unavailable for Test matches until November, as medical advice recommends that he avoid the longer format of the game for the time being.
Rashid Khan, who underwent back surgery last year, missed a significant amount of playing time and, with the Champions Trophy on the horizon, the ACB is taking precautions to ensure his recovery by continuing without their star player.