Afghanistan announce squad for one-off Test against New Zealand

Afghanistan have named their squad for the historic one-off Test against New Zealand, set to begin on 9th September in Greater Noida. 

Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the side in what promises to be a significant moment for Afghanistan's cricket journey.

Key players in the squad include Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, and all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai. However, the squad sees some notable absentees, with star all-rounder Rashid Khan, wicketkeeper-batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and all-rounder Karim Janat not being included.

Rashid, one of Afghanistan's leading cricketing figures, was not considered for selection after medical advice recommended that he refrain from long-format cricket for a year following his back surgery.

All-rounder Gulbadin Naib, who was part of the preliminary squad, also did not make the final cut.

Shahidi, who has led Afghanistan in three out of his eight Test matches, will be looking to make a mark in this historic contest.

On the other side, New Zealand have bolstered their coaching staff with the appointment of former Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Rangana Herath as their spin bowling coach for the next three Tests. Former Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour will also be in New Zealand's camp specifically for this Test match against Afghanistan.

Afghanistan's Squad:

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Abdul Malik, Riaz Hassan, Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Baheer Shah Mahboob, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Shams Ur Rahman, Zia Ur Rahman Akbar, Zahir Khan Pakteen, Qais Ahmad, Khalil Ahmad, Nijat Masood