Afghanistan has revealed its 16-member squad for the one-off Test against New Zealand, starting on September 9 in Greater Noida. The team has introduced three uncapped players – opener Riaz Hassan, all-rounder Shamsur Rahman, and fast bowler Khalil Ahmed. These fresh talents are expected to bring new energy to the team.
Unfortunately, Afghanistan’s star all-rounder Rashid Khan will miss this Test due to an injury. In his absence, Zahir Khan and Zia ur Rahman will take charge of the spin department. The Afghanistan Cricket Board shared that the squad was chosen based on performances during a 10-day preparation camp in Greater Noida. The selection was made after discussions with the captain and coaching staff, ensuring the best players were picked for this important match.
Afghanistan’s Squad for the Test Against New Zealand
Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Abdul Malik, Riaz Hassan, Afsar Zazai (wicketkeeper), Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper), Bahir Shah, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Umarzai, Shamsur Rahman, Zia ur Rahman, Zahir Khan, Qais Ahmed, Khalil Ahmed, Nijat Masood.
New Zealand’s Busy Cricket Schedule
After the one-off Test against Afghanistan, New Zealand will head to India for a three-match Test series in October. The first Test is scheduled to begin on October 16 in Bengaluru, followed by matches in Pune and Mumbai.
Vikram Rathore Joins New Zealand Coaching Team for Afghanistan Test
New Zealand vs. India Test Series Schedule
- 1st Test: October 16 – Bengaluru, M Chinnaswamy Stadium
- 2nd Test: October 24 – Pune, Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium
- 3rd Test: November 1 – Mumbai, Wankhede Cricket Stadium
Before facing New Zealand, India will play a Test series against Bangladesh, which starts on September 19 in Chennai.
