Rashid Khan to Miss Opening Test Against Zimbabwe

Afghanistan’s star spinner, Rashid Khan, will be absent for the first match of the two-Test series against Zimbabwe due to personal commitments.

Rashid, who had been included in Afghanistan's 18-member squad for the series, last played a Test match against Zimbabwe back in 2021. The 26-year-old had stayed away from red-ball cricket for an extended period on medical advice following a back injury, which also ruled him out of the Test series against New Zealand.

In a prior announcement, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) stated that Rashid would refrain from participating in Test matches until November, raising doubts about his availability for the Zimbabwe tour. However, his inclusion in the squad sparked optimism, as the series opener is set to take place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo starting December 26.

Interestingly, on the same day the ACB shared images of the team training in Bulawayo, Rashid posted a picture on his Facebook account showing him in the Netherlands. His absence from the team’s preparations raised questions, which were later clarified by ACB officials.

An insider from the Board revealed that Rashid would not participate in the first Test, explaining that the cricketer was attending a charity event.

The second match of the series, also scheduled in Bulawayo, will commence on January 2, leaving fans hopeful for Rashid’s return to bolster Afghanistan’s squad.