Mohammad Nabi is the sole remaining player from the inaugural Afghanistan One-Day International team, however he harbours significant international aspirations yet to be fulfilled.
Nabi, now 40 years old, continues to be an exceptional all-rounder and has recently assisted Fortune Barishal in securing victory in the Bangladesh Premier League.
He has returned to service in Afghanistan, 16 years after participating in the team that defeated Scotland in Benoni during his nation’s inaugural ODI.
He has not yet determined if the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 will be his final appearance in an international shirt.
He stated, “I am still contemplating the future.” These may not be my final ODIs; I will likely participate in fewer matches to provide opportunities for younger players to get experience.
I have conferred with the senior players over the high-stakes matches; the outcome remains uncertain. It will be contingent upon my physical condition.
The preparations for the Champions Trophy have been satisfactory. I have been occupied competing in the Bangladesh Premier League, where I was a champion. I am currently preparing for the Champions Trophy. I completed three training sessions with the national team in Abu Dhabi, hence I am in excellent condition.
“Securing the BPL enhanced my confidence, particularly after overcoming a challenging situation in the final.” Throughout the competition, we performed admirably, and my individual contributions in both bowling and batting were significant, aiding in the successful conclusion of four or five matches.
“I feel excellent; it is enhancing my confidence.”
Mohammad Nabi is one of the spinners that Afghanistan will need to succeed in Pakistan; the most recent addition to the team is 20-year-old left-armer Nangialai Kharoti.
He has made an instant impact since seizing his opportunity and will join the ranks of Nabi and Rashid Khan, who currently occupies the top position in the ICC Men’s ODI bowling rankings.
Mohammad Nabi stated, “Kharoti is included in the 15-member squad.”
He is a young individual who has performed exceptionally well over the past two years. He is an excellent spinner and a proficient fielder as well. He performed excellently in bowling against South Africa and Ireland in Sharjah.
“It is hoped that he can secure additional wickets in the Champions Trophy, as it would benefit the team.”
“I am also genuinely pleased for Rash,” he remarked regarding Rashid, who has recently surpassed Dwayne Bravo to become the most prolific wicket-taker in T20I cricket history.
“He is the preeminent bowler in T20 cricket, and God willing, he will achieve 1000 wickets soon!” He remains youthful, energetic, and possesses a strong desire for additional wickets.
On the pitch, he exhibits aggression and competes for every ball, contributing more energy.’ Outside of cricket, he is an ordinary individual who relishes every moment away from the sport.
“That is an advantage, and he has significantly assisted the youth.” He provides solace and engages in dialogue to facilitate their progress. He excels at ensuring them comfort in the changing room.
Afghanistan is placed in a group with Australia, South Africa, and England for their inaugural participation in the competition.
They aspire to build upon their advancement to the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, while Nabi harbours more extensive aspirations.
His son, Hassan Eisakhil, is merely 18 years old, although he has begun to make an impact, with Nabi aspiring for the possibility of them sharing the pitch while representing their nation.
He stated, “It is my aspiration to play for Afghanistan collectively.” It is hoped that we can accomplish it.
“He is performing exceptionally.” In the previous two matches, he achieved a score of one hundred and ninety-five. He is diligent, and I am also encouraging him to exert effort.
I desire for him to establish his own objectives; to get the status of a high-level cricketer, one must exert much effort. Scoring 50 or 60 is insufficient; one must achieve over 100.
“He is constantly attentive and exerting pressure.” When he is able to communicate with me, I endeavour to provide him with counsel to bolster his confidence for the game.
India
