Named in T20I Squad to Face Ireland; First Match Since 2023 World Cup
Rashid Khan, the dynamic spinner from Afghanistan, is set to make a comeback after a period of recovery from back surgery. His inclusion in Afghanistan’s squad for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland marks his return to competitive cricket following his absence since the 2023 World Cup.
Rashid had been sidelined due to a back injury, missing out on various tournaments including the Big Bash League, SA20, and Afghanistan’s matches against UAE, India, and Sri Lanka. Although he traveled with the squad to India in January, he was not yet fit to participate, as confirmed by his teammate Ibrahim Zadran.
During the ODI World Cup, Rashid had been Afghanistan’s standout performer with 11 wickets. His return ahead of the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies in June bodes well for Afghanistan’s prospects. Furthermore, his availability for Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2024 season adds another dimension to his comeback story.
In a further boost for Afghanistan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, recovering from a right phalanx sprain, is also back in contention. The squad also includes uncapped allrounder Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai and Mohammad Ishaq, alongside left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote and opening batter Sediqullah Atal, making his return to the team after his last appearance at the Asian Games in October.
Afghanistan will host Ireland for three T20Is in Sharjah on March 15, 17, and 18. The preceding ODI series ended with Afghanistan’s 2-0 victory, while Ireland secured their maiden Test win in the one-off match.
Image Source: Espncricinfo.com
