Afghanistan has recently announced its squad for the upcoming single Test match against New Zealand, set to be played on 9th September in Greater Noida, India. This match is particularly significant as it marks Afghanistan’s first-ever Test against New Zealand, a team known for its formidable performance in the longest format of the game. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has selected a strong 16-member squad, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, to take on the Kiwis in this historic encounter.
Afghanistan’s Squad for the New Zealand Test
The Afghanistan squad for the Test against New Zealand includes a mix of experienced players and young talents who have made a mark in recent international matches. The full squad is as follows:
Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
Ibrahim Zadran
Riaz Hassan
Abdul Malik
Rahmat Shah
Baheer Shah Mahboob
Ikram Alikhil (Wicketkeeper)
Shahidullah Kamal
Afsar Zazai (Wicketkeeper)
Azmatullah Omarzai
Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar
Shams-ur-Rahman
Qais Ahmad
Zahir Khan
Nijat Masood
Khalil Ahmad
The absence of Afghanistan’s star spinner, Rashid Khan, due to injury is undoubtedly a blow to the team, but they still possess a quality bowling attack. Players like Qais Ahmad and Zahir Khan will be expected to step up in Rashid’s absence and deliver on the big stage. Moreover, the likes of Azmatullah Omarzai and Rahmat Shah bring balance to the team with their all-round capabilities.
The Challenge Ahead: Facing New Zealand
New Zealand, a seasoned Test side, is coming off a challenging phase, having lost their last three Test matches. This presents an opportunity for Afghanistan to exploit New Zealand’s vulnerability and make a statement in the international cricket arena. While Afghanistan has played only nine Test matches to date, winning three of them, they are steadily making their mark in the longer format of the game.
The Afghan team will be looking to capitalise on New Zealand’s recent struggles, especially in conditions that may favour Afghanistan’s spinners. Although Rashid Khan is missing, the inclusion of several spin options like Qais Ahmad and Zahir Khan makes Afghanistan a dangerous side on spinning tracks. These players have been pivotal in Afghanistan’s success in white-ball cricket, and they will be keen to transfer that form into the Test format.
Key Players to Watch
In the absence of Rashid Khan, Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the team from the front. The captain will have the dual responsibility of anchoring the batting order and making crucial decisions on the field. His experience and calmness under pressure will be vital if Afghanistan is to challenge New Zealand.
The opening pair of Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah will also be critical to Afghanistan’s success. Both players have shown their ability to play long innings and build partnerships, which will be essential in a Test match scenario. Azmatullah Omarzai, known for his big-hitting abilities, can also be a game-changer lower down the order and provide vital breakthroughs with the ball.
Ikram Alikhil and Afsar Zazai offer Afghanistan depth in the wicketkeeping department, providing flexibility in team selection depending on conditions and strategy. Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar and Shams-ur-Rahman add further variety to the bowling attack, giving the team options to adapt to different situations during the game.
New Zealand’s Struggles in Recent Tests
New Zealand has experienced a dip in form recently, losing their last three Test matches. This will likely put additional pressure on the Kiwis, who are usually a tough team to beat. Afghanistan will aim to take advantage of this slump and create history by securing a win in their maiden Test against New Zealand.
Despite their struggles, New Zealand cannot be underestimated. They have world-class players, and their ability to bounce back from difficult situations is well-known. Afghanistan will need to stay focused and execute their plans effectively if they are to challenge the Kiwis in this match.
🚨 𝐒𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐃 𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐓! 🚨
The @ACBofficials Selection Committee named 16-member squad for the only test match against New Zealand starting this Monday, in Greater Noida, India. The squad is finalized based on players’ performance in the preparation camp.#AfgvsNZ pic.twitter.com/T9uciEkeuZ
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) September 6, 2024
A Historic Moment for Afghanistan Cricket
This Test match against New Zealand is a significant moment for Afghanistan cricket. Having made their Test debut in 2018, Afghanistan is still a relatively new team in the format. However, they have shown tremendous progress and resilience, as evidenced by their recent performance in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, where they reached the semi-finals.
The Afghanistan cricket team has already earned respect on the global stage for their performances in white-ball cricket, and they are now looking to build a strong reputation in Test cricket. A victory against New Zealand would not only be a historic achievement for Afghanistan but would also solidify their standing in international cricket.