World Cup: Afghanistan eyeing semifinal berth

KABUL Cup, says the team’s chief selector.

Last month, three captains were named for three formats. In an interview on Tuesday, Dawlat Khan Ahmadzai said the decision was taken thinking about this World Cup about the 2023 edition.

He told the Press Trust of India: “Like you are expressing your concern to me, there were concerns expressed by players (Rashid and Nabi) and the issue was handled professionally.”

After the sacking of Asghar was captain in all formats, Naib will lead Afghanistan in the 50-over World Cup, Rashid in T20s and Rahmat Shah in Test matches.

“The team members, including Rashid and Nabi, are now happy for Gulbadin. He is not a new man. He has been playing for 17 years and has captaincy experience at the first-class and U-19 level.”

Rashid and Mujeeb were not around in 2015, Ahmadzai recalled, saying Afghanistan were eyeing a semi-final slot. “With the team composition we have, we can definitely surprise a few teams.”

Ahmadzai defended the removal of ODI captain Asghar Afghan weeks before the World Cup. He insisted the change was in the long-term interest of the squad.

Satisfied with his side’s preparation for the quadrennial contest, the chief selector stressed the need for the right selection and training.

“We have been working on that for the past six months. We have played in Scotland and South Africa. We feel the preparation is complete,” the official said.

PAN Monitor/mud

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