Mohammad Nabi reveals timeframe for international retirement

Mohammad Nabi, a legendary figure in Afghanistan cricket, expressed his ambition to participate in the next T20 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in 2026. Despite being 39 years old, Nabi remains determined to continue representing his country if chosen by the selectors for the next two years.

Acknowledging his advancing age, Nabi suggested that the upcoming Champions Trophy in the 50-over format might be his last, with a potential retirement to follow within a year thereafter. His ultimate goal is to conclude his career with the ICC T20 World Cup.

"For how long I want to continue my cricket? Still, my body is working and I am running fast. I am fielding in the boundary taking catches well and doing bowling well. Still, I am doing well and I am trying to keep myself (fit) for as long as possible," he said.

"Afghanistan team needs me as well at this stage but still may be Champions Trophy will be my last Champions Trophy in 50-over [format] and after that maybe one year and that's it. Hope so (about playing in the next T20 World Cup). If I am selected I will have to play," he added.

Nabi underscored the importance of maintaining his fitness through rigorous training and a disciplined diet, recognizing that his age requires careful attention to recovery and nutrition.

"I am not young as I am forty-year-old man. Still, I try my best to train hard and do my recovery as quickly as possible and it all depends on your food and how you eat. How you eat clean and good food as it makes you more fit," said the veteran.

Reflecting on Afghanistan's recent T20 World Cup performance, where they reached the semifinals for the first time, Nabi expressed pride in the team's achievements and highlighted the contributions of all team members. He remains optimistic about the future, aiming for further successes in international cricket.

"Afghanistan's T20 performance [in the World Cup] was really good. We beat big teams in the tournament. Yeah, first time in semi-final and in the tough four and that was a great achievement in my cricket life and hopefully more to come. As a team we played and performed in the World Cup and everyone contributed a lot in this World Cup," he concluded.