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Afghanistan have unveiled their 15-member squad for the forthcoming T20I series against Ireland, set to commence on March 15. This revelation comes on the heels of a recent face-off between the two sides in a three-match ODI series, with Afghanistan clinching victory with a commanding 2-0 lead.
Rashid Khan returns
Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan is set to make a highly-anticipated return to international cricket after a lengthy hiatus due to a back injury. Rashid, a pivotal figure in Afghanistan’s cricketing endeavors, has been out of action since the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. His absence was palpably felt in recent engagements, notably during the ODI series against Ireland, where his spin prowess could have proved decisive. Rashid will be leading the Afghans in the shortest format against the Irish side.
Boost for IPL franchise
Rashid’s resurgence is not just a boon for the Afghan team but also for the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The franchise, which clinched the title in 2022, will benefit from the inclusion of the dynamic all-rounder. Rashid’s absence in various leagues and international assignments had raised concerns, but his return ahead of the IPL season is greeted with enthusiasm by cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
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Familiar faces in the roster
The squad announcement also sees the return of another spin maestro, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who joins Rashid in bolstering Afghanistan’s bowling attack. Among other notable names in the lineup are Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mohammad Nabi, providing a blend of experience and youthful exuberance.
Afghanistan T20I squad for Ireland series
Rashid Khan (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediq Atal, Ijaz Ahmadzai, Ishaq Rahimi (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Nangyal Kharotai, Azmat Omarzai, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Wafadar Momand, Farid Malik, Naveen Ul Haq, Fazal Haq Farooqi
