The Afghanistan Men’s T20I captain, Rashid Khan has stated that injury concerns regarding his back will hold him back from playing test cricket. The leg spinner suffered a chronic lower-back injury which became a significant threat to his career longevity, leading to his recent announcement that he may step away from test cricket. He played his last test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo on January 2, 2025, and he took a sensational 11-wicket haul in the game.
The first thing was told to me by the doctor, you have to stay away from red-ball [cricket]... I will think about that, but ODI, yes, I enjoy, and I'm in a good shape to play ODI for a longer period of time for Afghanistan, but especially red-ball is something which looks a bit difficult for me,” said Rashid Khan. He has picked up 45 wickets from 6 matches in test cricket, proving his worth in the format. However, Rashid will have to follow the advice of the doctor, if he is to play a longer career for Afghanistan.
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White-ball focus remains as Khan continues to lead Afghanistan’s bowling attack
Rashid Khan has undoubtedly been one of the greatest spinners in the world as international batters still struggle to pick him. The role that Rashid Khan plays for his national side is not something that can be replaced quickly, as he has been a key bowler in their bowling unit. Afghanistan will be happy that he is fit to play ODI cricket for the side as he is just as good in white-ball cricket as well.
According to the ICC Men’s ODI Bowler’s Ranking, Rashid Khan is ranked as the No.1 bowler. Rashid has picked up 210 wickets from 109 innings at an economy rate of 4. His leadership quality is also highly valued in the side as he adds a lot of value with his experience. Afghanistan will have their hopes pinned on Rashid Khan with the 2027 ODI World Cup just around the corner.
The Afghanistan leggie is highly rated in the T20 format and he is one of the most sought after players in franchise cricket as well. He is also ranked as the No.1 bowler in the ICC T20I bowler rankings. He has scalped 193 wickets from 115 innings at an economy of 6. He has been one of the leading wicket-takers for the side and he has bowled some match-winning spells. He has established his presence in T20 leagues across the globe .
In the IPL, he is hailed as one of the all time greats as he has picked up 163 wickets from 139 innings at an economy rate of 7. He has played in the BBL, PSL, The Hundred and many more franchise cricket leagues across the world. He will be hopeful that he can continue to play for his country and these leagues for a longer period of time, despite his lower-back issues.
The 27-year-old believes that there is still plenty of cricket in him and he will be around the international stage for a longer period of time. As far as Afghanistan is concerned, there are a few important ICC events in the coming years and they will believe that they will be a stronger side with the presence of Rashid Khan in their squad.
