AFG vs PAK: Why is Najibullah Zadran not playing Afghanistan vs Pakistan 1st ODI?

Najibullah Zadran has played 88 ODI matches, accumulating 2013 runs and averaging over 30.

In a disappointing turn of events for Afghanistan’s cricket team, key batsman Najibullah Zadran will be absent from the eagerly anticipated ODI series against Pakistan, commencing today in Sri Lanka.

Why is Najibullah Zadran not playing AFG vs PAK 1st ODI?

The Afghanistan Cricket Board recently shared the unfortunate news on social media, revealing that Zadran would miss the entire series due to a knee injury. The absence of the experienced left-handed batter is a setback for Afghanistan, who were undoubtedly looking forward to his crucial contributions on the field.

Najibullah Zadran’s absence is a notable blow for Afghanistan’s batting lineup. With 88 ODI matches under his belt, Zadran has proved himself to be a pivotal figure in the team’s middle order. Throughout his ODI career, he has accumulated an impressive total of 2013 runs, averaging over 30. His record includes a century and 15 half-centuries, highlighting his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate the scoring when needed. Zadran’s experience and skillset would undoubtedly have been instrumental against Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Shahid Kamal roped in as replacement for Afghanistan vs Pakistan ODI Series

Stepping into Zadran’s shoes is left-handed batsman Shahid Kamal. While Kamal has only featured in 1 Test and 1 ODI match for Afghanistan, his all-round abilities make him a promising inclusion. In the solitary ODI game he participated in, Kamal scored 1 run. Additionally, his left-arm off-spin bowling could offer a valuable variation to Afghanistan’s bowling lineup.

The absence of Najibullah Zadran will undoubtedly pose a challenge for Afghanistan as they face Pakistan in the ODI series. However, this series holds significance beyond its individual matches. Both teams are utilizing these fixtures as a crucial preparation ground for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. The tournament, co-hosted by Sri Lanka, promises to bring together top cricketing nations for a thrilling competition, and Afghanistan aims to be fully prepared to take on their opponents.

Afghanistan ODI Squad

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ikram Alikhil, Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, Shahid Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Abdul Rahman, Mohammad Saleem Safi, and Wafadar Momand.