Afghanistan’s Ascent: A New Challenge in the Champions Trophy

Afghanistan has unveiled their 15-man squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy, welcoming back the fit Ibrahim Zadran following his recovery from ankle surgery. This decision comes amidst ongoing discussions surrounding potential boycotts due to the Taliban’s stance on women’s rights, a sensitive issue since their resurgence in 2021. Despite the calls for a boycott, Afghanistan is resolute in their commitment to compete in this prestigious tournament, guided by the expert hand of former Pakistan captain Younis Khan.

As the team prepares for their debut at an ICC event featuring the top eight One-Day International sides, they acknowledge the challenges that lie beyond the pitch. England and South Africa have reiterated their intention to dismiss any boycott plans, focusing instead on the sport itself.

While Zadran’s return is a boost for the squad, the absence of spinner Mujeeb Ur Rehman, who continues to recover from a hand injury incurred last year, poses a challenge. To compensate for Mujeeb’s loss, Afghanistan has enlisted spinner AM Ghaznafar, hoping to bolster their bowling attack.

Afghani cricket officials believe that the team’s past successes in ICC tournaments will inspire their players to rise above the distractions of political disagreements. They will kick off their campaign against South Africa in Karachi on February 21, with a squad featuring notable talents including captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, and the aforementioned Ibrahim Zadran, all set to make their mark on this significant stage.

Afghanistan have recalled fit-again Ibrahim Zadran to their 15-man Champions Trophy squad, amid ongoing calls for teams to boycott matches against them due to the Taliban government’s crackdown on women’s rights.

Afghan opener Zadran has recovered from ankle surgery to make the squad but team management decided against rushing Mujeeb Ur Rehman back into 50-overs cricket after the spinner sprained his hand last year.

Fellow spinner AM Ghaznafar has been drafted in as a like-for-like replacement for Mujeeb.

Afghanistan have brought in former Pakistan captain Younis Khan to mentor the side in what will mark their first appearance in the tournament featuring the world’s top eight ODI teams.

The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side may be faced with some off-field distractions in Pakistan, with Group B rivals England and South Africa being urged to boycott their matches due to crackdowns by the Taliban since returning to power in 2021.

However, the ECB and Cricket South Africa have ruled out boycotts against Afghanistan in multi-team competitions organised by the governing International Cricket Council (ICC).

They would rather follow a unified and collective approach from all ICC members, the boards said.

Afghanistan begin their campaign against South Africa in Karachi on February 21.

With and Reference to:https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8865614/afghanistan-name-tournament-squad-amid-boycott-calls/ And https://www.footboom1.com/en/news/cricket/2290608-afghanistan-s-ascent-a-new-challenge-in-the-champions-trophy