Since their debut in the 2015 World Cup, Afghanistan has managed just one win in 15 attempts across two editions. However, their fortune may change during the upcoming 45 days of the tournament. Having previously played in Australia, New Zealand, and England, Afghanistan is finally participating in a 50-over World Cup in the subcontinent, where they could prove formidable challengers to most teams.
This year, Afghanistan has already achieved a notable victory against Bangladesh in Bangladesh, a rare feat in this format. If they can replicate this success against Bangladesh in their opening World Cup fixture in Dharamsala, Afghanistan will find themselves in an advantageous position, considering the spin-friendly venues they are scheduled to play at. With two matches in Delhi and two in Chennai, renowned for supporting slow bowlers, Afghanistan’s spin trio of Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb-ur-Rahman poses a significant threat. Additionally, Noor Ahmed may also come into play in specific games. Afghanistan’s direct qualification for the World Cup highlights their growing stature in international cricket.
Unlike the past when they relied heavily on spinners, Afghanistan now boasts two quality fast bowlers, Naveen-ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who are well-suited to subcontinent conditions. In the batting department, their openers have been in excellent form. If the middle order can provide adequate support, Afghanistan could become a formidable team, especially with Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan ready to contribute with both bat and ball.
While even two wins would be seen as an improvement given their history, Afghanistan has the chance to aim higher in this edition. If dew doesn’t disrupt their plans, this World Cup might offer them the ideal opportunity to make a statement and possibly even contend for a spot in the semifinals with a bit of luck on their side.
Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Abdul Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq
Probable XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Key Player to Watch: Mohammad Nabi Mohammad Nabi, the veteran all-rounder, led Afghanistan in their first-ever World Cup match in 2015 and is set to participate in his final World Cup at the age of 38. Nabi, one of Afghanistan’s greatest-ever players alongside Rashid Khan, aims to make a significant impact on the grand stage one last time. He has the potential to be a game-changer with the bat, as demonstrated in recent matches like the Asia Cup fixture against Sri Lanka. With his reliability in spin-friendly conditions, Nabi’s presence becomes even more crucial, particularly when other players like Najibullah are facing a dip in form.
Marquee Match: The clash against Pakistan promises to be an enthralling encounter. A rivalry has been brewing between these two teams, with memories of their intense battle during the 2019 World Cup, which witnessed confrontations between supporters. Although Pakistan recently outperformed Afghanistan, the match in Chennai may favor Afghanistan due to their superior spin attack.
Giant Killing Potential: Once again, it’s Afghanistan’s spin attack that holds the potential to create headlines. Defending champions England, known for their aggressive batting style, may find their freedom curtailed on a sluggish Delhi surface, providing Afghanistan with an opportunity to upset the giants.