KABUL: Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Wednesday, announced a 15-member squad for the one-off Test against Bangladesh, leaving out star all-rounder Rashid Khan to prioritise his “long-term fitness”.
Rashid Khan, who returned to action in the ODI series decider against Sri Lanka after missing the first two due to a lower-back injury, has now been rested for Afghanistan’s one-off Test against Bangladesh, scheduled to take place from June 14 to 18.
“Although he made a comeback in the series decider today, the team management & medical team have decided to prioritize his long-term fitness,” the ACB said on Twitter.
“Despite being fit, our selectors believe it is crucial not to rush his return. They have taken a cautious approach to ensure he receives adequate rest and rehabilitation allowing him to regain full fitness before the upcoming BCBtigers series, the ACC Asia Cup & the ICC CWC 2023,” the statement added.
Besides Rashid Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, who missed the third ODI against Sri Lanka was also left out of Afghanistan’s squad due to a groin injury.
As per the ACB, he will undergo rehab and will remain under full medical observation until his return.
Meanwhile, Izharulhaq Naveed, Ibrahim Abdulrahimzai, Nijat Masood, and Karim Janat have all received their maiden Afghanistan Test call-ups. Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the 15-man squad.
Afghanistan will reach Bangladesh on June 10 for the one-off Test. They will tour Bangladesh twice this year – firstly for the one-off Test in June and then for a three-match ODI series and two T20Is in July.
Afghanistan Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Afsar Zazai (wk), Ikram Alikhil, Ibrahim Zadran, Abdul Malik, Bahir Shah, Nasir Jamal, Karim Janat, Zahir Khan, Izharulhaq Naveed, Amir Hamza, Ibrahim Abdulrahimzai, Yamin Ahmadzai, Nijat Masood.
Reserves: Noor Ali Zadran, Zia-ur-Rehman, Azmatullah Omarzai and Sayed Shirzad.
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