Rashid Khan Returns to Afghanistan Test Squad for Zimbabwe Tour

In a significant boost for Afghanistan's red-ball cricket, Rashid Khan has been named in the squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Zimbabwe, set to begin on Boxing Day in Bulawayo. The 26-year-old leg-spinner last featured in Test cricket back in 2021, where he played against Zimbabwe, but has since stepped away from the format due to a persistent groin injury.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced an 18-member squad, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, that includes seven uncapped players. Among the newcomers are left-arm seamer Bashir Ahmad and allrounder Ismat Alam, both of whom have impressed in domestic competitions.

Joining them are Azmatullah Omarzai, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Riaz Hassan, and Sediqullah Atal, who were previously selected for a one-off Test against New Zealand in Greater Noida in September, a match that never took place due to rain.

Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil, ACB's interim chief selector, expressed optimism about Rashid's return, stating, "His inclusion is a promising sign for our red-ball game going forward." The squad has undergone extensive preparations in Nangarhar province, with 19 players and the support staff working hard to ensure readiness for the series.

Hamid Hassan will serve as the head coach during the tour, stepping in for Jonathan Trott, who is unavailable for personal reasons. The excitement builds as Afghanistan gears up to face Zimbabwe, aiming to make a strong statement in the Test arena.

Afghanistan Squad:

- Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)
- Rahmat Shah (vc)
- Ikram Alikhail (wk)
- Afsar Zazai (wk)
- Riaz Hassan
- Sediqullah Atal
- Abdul Malik
- Baheer Shah Mahboob
- Ismat Alam
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Zahir Khan
- Zia Ur Rehman Akbar
- Zahir Shehzad
- Rashid Khan
- Yamin Ahmadzai
- Bashir Ahmad Afghan
- Naveed Zadran
- Fareed Ahmad Malik

As the series approaches, all eyes will be on Rashid Khan and the promising new talent making their Test debuts, as Afghanistan aims to solidify its standing in international cricket.