Cricket

Afghanistan Women's Cricket Team to Play Historic Match in MelbourneAn Afghanistan women's cricket team, composed of refugees now residing in Australia, will make history by playing a match in Melbourne in January. This will be the first time the team has reunited since fleeing their homeland following the Taliban takeover.The T20 match between an Afghanistan Women's XI and a Cricket Without Borders XI will take place on January 30 at Junction Oval, preceding the opening day of the floodlit Women's Ashes Test at the MCG.The players involved escaped Afghanistan in 2021 when the Taliban seized power and now reside in Canberra and Melbourne. While many play for local cricket clubs, they have been unable to form a representative team until now.The Australian government has played a crucial role in facilitating the match. "Numerous individuals from the cricket community and beyond have collaborated to support the Afghanistan women's team members since their relocation to Australia," said Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley. "This match will serve as a testament to their efforts."Earlier this year, 17 players who were contracted to the Afghanistan Cricket Board in 2020 penned a letter to the ICC requesting assistance in establishing a refugee team in Australia. "Our goal is to showcase our talent, inspire women in Afghanistan, and highlight the challenges they face," the letter stated. "We aspire to compete at the highest level, like the Afghanistan men's team."On Tuesday, CA announced a partnership with UNICEF Australia as part of the foundation's "Until Every Girl Can Play" campaign, which promotes gender equality.The match will not only be a celebration of the team's resilience but also a symbol of hope for women in Afghanistan. It will demonstrate the power of sport to unite and empower individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

Mohammad Nabi, Afghanistan's seasoned allrounder, has announced his intention to retire from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) after the 2025 Champions Trophy. The 38-year-old revealed his plans following Afghanistan's 2-1 series victory over Bangladesh in the UAE, where he was named Player of the Series.Nabi's decision stems from his desire to focus on T20 Internationals (T20Is) and contribute to Afghanistan's continued growth in the shortest format. With 167 ODI appearances, Nabi is Afghanistan's most capped player in the format and currently holds the No. 1 ranking among ODI allrounders according to the ICC.Throughout his ODI career, Nabi has been a pivotal figure for Afghanistan. His 3600 runs place him second on the country's all-time run-getters list, while his 172 wickets make him the second-highest wicket-taker. His all-round abilities have been instrumental in Afghanistan's rise to prominence in international cricket.Nabi's retirement from ODIs will mark the end of an era for Afghanistan cricket. He has been a constant presence in the team since their ODI debut in 2009, captaining them in their maiden World Cup appearance in 2015. His experience and leadership will be sorely missed by the team.However, Nabi's decision to continue playing T20Is is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Afghanistan cricket. He remains a key player in the team's T20I setup and will continue to guide the younger generation of players.The 2025 Champions Trophy will be Afghanistan's first appearance at the prestigious event. Their qualification for the tournament is a testament to their progress in ODI cricket. Nabi's presence in the team for this tournament will provide invaluable experience and leadership.

Cricket Australia (CA) has partnered with UNICEF Australia to promote gender equality through the 'Until Every Girl Can Play' campaign. This partnership raises questions about the future of bilateral cricket matches between Australia and Afghanistan.CA has been vocal in its stance against scheduling men's bilateral cricket against Afghanistan outside of World Cups due to the Taliban government's restrictions on women's rights. The organization has canceled three bilateral series with Afghanistan in recent years.Despite this, CA continues to support a group of Afghan female cricketers who reside and play in Australia. These players have requested assistance from the ICC in establishing a refugee team based in Australia.CA CEO Nick Hockley emphasized the organization's ongoing support for these players. "They've been extremely well supported by every level of the cricketing community," he said. "We are working behind the scenes on ways we can continue to support."UNICEF Australia CEO Tony Stuart acknowledged the complex political situation but emphasized the importance of participation. "We encourage participation wherever we are in the world," he said. "I'm pleased to see so many Afghan women in Australia, and I hope they get the opportunity to participate in the game in the future."The Future Tours Programme indicates that Australia is scheduled to host Afghanistan in a men's Test and three T20Is in July 2026. However, it remains uncertain whether this series will proceed given CA's stance on women's rights.

Mohammad Nabi, the former Afghanistan skipper, has expressed his desire to participate in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for next year in Pakistan. The 39-year-old played a pivotal role in Afghanistan's 2-1 series victory over Bangladesh in Sharjah, contributing 135 runs and two wickets.Nabi's performance in the series, including a crucial 34* in the final match, helped Afghanistan chase down Bangladesh's total of 244/8 with just 10 deliveries remaining. His valuable contributions and experience were instrumental in the team's success.Despite being in the twilight of his international career, Nabi is determined to make the Champions Trophy his final chance to win an ICC trophy. "In my mind from the last (50-over) World Cup, I thought of retiring, but if I can play one Champions Trophy, it will be great for me," Nabi said. "Just small contributions from my side to the youngsters and my insight to them will be more useful."Afghanistan's recent performances in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and ICC Men's T20 World Cup have established them as one of the most exciting white-ball teams globally. Nabi's experience and leadership will be invaluable to the team as they aim to make a mark in the Champions Trophy.Before the Champions Trophy, Afghanistan will embark on a multi-format tour of Zimbabwe, including three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Test matches in Bulawayo. These matches will provide the team with an opportunity to fine-tune their preparations and build momentum ahead of the major tournament.

Afghanistan's relentless pursuit of victory culminated in a thrilling five-wicket triumph over Bangladesh in the third and decisive ODI in Sharjah, securing a 2-1 series win. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz's scintillating century and Azmatullah Omarzai's all-around brilliance proved pivotal in the Afghans' triumph.Gurbaz, known for his explosive batting, unleashed a masterful 120-ball 101, adorned with seven towering sixes and five boundaries. His innings laid the foundation for Afghanistan's successful chase of 245. Omarzai, who had earlier impressed with a four-wicket haul, complemented Gurbaz's heroics with a solid 77-ball 70.Bangladesh, batting first, had posted a competitive 244 for 8, thanks to Mohammad Mahmudullah's valiant 98 and Mehidy Hasan Miraz's steady 66. However, Afghanistan's bowlers, led by Omarzai, kept the Bangladeshi batsmen in check, restricting them to a manageable total.The Afghan chase got off to a shaky start, with Bangladesh pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana reducing them to 84 for 3. But Gurbaz and Omarzai steadied the ship with a crucial 100-run partnership for the fourth wicket.Gurbaz's dismissal in the 39th over left Afghanistan needing 61 runs to win. Omarzai, however, continued his onslaught, forging a vital 58-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (34 off 27 balls). Omarzai sealed the victory in style, hitting the winning six.Afghanistan's skipper, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed his delight at the team's performance, particularly the contributions of Gurbaz and Omarzai. Miraz, on the other hand, acknowledged Afghanistan's dominance in the series.

Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the second-youngest player to score eight centuries in men's One-Day Internationals (ODIs). The 22-year-old opener achieved this remarkable feat during Afghanistan's five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the third ODI in Sharjah.Gurbaz's masterful 120-ball 101 propelled Afghanistan to a series triumph over Bangladesh. His innings was a testament to his exceptional talent and maturity beyond his years. The left-handed batsman displayed a wide array of strokes, including powerful drives, delicate flicks, and audacious scoops.Gurbaz's century is even more impressive considering the company he now keeps. Legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar was 22 years and 357 days old when he reached his eighth ODI century, while superstar Virat Kohli achieved the feat at 23 years and 27 days. Pakistan's Babar Azam was 23 years 280 days when he got to his eighth ODI century.However, it is South Africa's Quinton de Kock who holds the record for being the youngest player to score eight ODI centuries. De Kock was just 22 years 312 days old when he reached this milestone.Gurbaz's century was also his third against Bangladesh and third in Sharjah in the ODI format. He now has the most centuries for Afghanistan in ODIs, surpassing Mohammad Shahzad's tally of six.The victory over Bangladesh was a significant achievement for Afghanistan, who have been making steady progress in international cricket. The team's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its players and coaching staff.

Mohammad Nabi to Retire from ODIs After Champions TrophyStar Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has announced his decision to retire from One-day Internationals (ODIs) after the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. The 39-year-old, who retired from Test cricket in 2019, will bid farewell to the 50-over format following the prestigious ICC tournament, according to Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chief executive Naseeb Khan.Nabi made his ODI debut in 2009 against Scotland and has since represented Afghanistan in 165 matches. During his illustrious career, he has amassed 3549 runs with a highest score of 116 and claimed 171 wickets with his off-spin bowling."Yes, Nabi is retiring from ODIs after the Champions Trophy and he informed the board about his desire," Naseeb told Cricbuzz. "He told me a few months back that he wants to end his ODI career after the Champions Trophy and we welcome his decision."Nabi's retirement decision comes after a successful ODI series against Bangladesh in Sharjah. In the series opener, he played a pivotal role in Afghanistan's 92-run victory, scoring a brilliant 79-ball 84 and taking a wicket."After the Champions Trophy, what I understand is that, he is expected to continue his T20 career, and that is the plan until now," Naseeb added.Nabi's retirement marks the end of an era for Afghanistan cricket. He has been a key figure in the team's rise to international prominence and has played a significant role in their success in both ODIs and T20Is.

Afghanistan's young spin sensation, Allah Ghazanfar, etched his name in cricket history with a remarkable six-wicket haul that propelled his team to a resounding 92-run victory over Bangladesh in the first ODI encounter in Sharjah.The 18-year-old mystery spinner, who began his cricketing journey as a fast bowler, showcased his exceptional talent by dismantling Bangladesh's batting lineup. His figures of 6 for 26 in 6.3 overs proved decisive as Bangladesh collapsed from a promising 132/3 to a disappointing 143 all out while chasing a target of 236 runs.Ghazanfar's performance marked the best bowling figures in an Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODI match, surpassing Shakib Al Hasan's 5-29 at Southampton in 2019. His brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award, further cementing his status as a rising star in international cricket.Ghazanfar's journey to the top has been marked by hard work and determination. After being converted into a spinner by former Afghanistan skipper Dawlat Ahmadzai, he made a name for himself with his impressive showing during the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he claimed eight wickets in four matches.His performances at the youth level earned him a senior team call-up, and he made his ODI debut against Ireland. He continued to impress, winning the Player of the Match award in the Emerging Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka A as Afghanistan clinched the title.Ghazanfar's talent has also caught the attention of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who added him to their squad as a replacement for Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Although he did not play any matches for KKR in the 2024 campaign, his inclusion in the squad is a testament to his potential.Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi praised Ghazanfar's performance, saying, "He is a special talent and has a good future for Afghanistan. He bowled well in the first spell, but he bowled that no-ball and I asked him why did he bowl a no-ball (laughs). I am very happy with the options we have on the bench."Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain rued his team's batting slump, acknowledging that his own dismissal played a crucial role in the defeat. "I think my wicket turned the match," said Najmul. "I was the set batsman so when I got out we needed to bat longer but credit to Afghanistan spinners for the way they bowled."

Afghanistan's captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, elected to bat first after winning the toss against Bangladesh in the opening ODI in Sharjah. The decision marked the debut of left-handed opening batter Sediqullah Atal, who replaced the injured Ibrahim Zadran. Atal has previously featured in six T20Is.Afghanistan's lineup included four spin-bowling options: legspinners Rashid Khan and Rahmat Shah, left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote, and offspinners Mohammad Nabi and AM Ghazanfar. Fazalhaq Farooqi served as their sole frontline quick, with Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib providing support.Bangladesh, on the other hand, faced the absence of key players Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, and Tanzim Hasan due to various reasons. Nasum Ahmed and Nahid Rana were also unavailable for the match. Their team featured three frontline pacers in Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam, along with two spinners in Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Rishad Hossain.Afghanistan entered the series with momentum from their 2-1 victory over South Africa in September, while Bangladesh had not played an ODI in eight months. This match also marked Bangladesh's first ODI in Sharjah in 29 years.