Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan out of first two ODIs against Sri Lanka

1 of 1

Colombo. Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan, who played in the India Premier League (IPL) 2023 final against Chennai Super Kings earlier this week, has suffered a lower back injury and is set to start against Sri Lanka from Friday. He has been ruled out of the first two matches of the ODI series. The Afghanistan Cricket Board said that Rashid would remain under full medical observation, and was expected to return for the final match on 7 June.

The three-match series begins with the first ODI in Hambantota on Friday (June 2), with the second match being played two days later at the same ground.

Seven days after the ODI series, Afghanistan have to play the only Test against Bangladesh in Chattogram.

Rashid was the second most successful bowler for Gujarat Titan in IPL 2023 after Mohammed Shami. His team lost to Chennai Super Kings in the final on Monday night. He was the joint second highest wicket-taker of the tournament with 27 wickets.

In Rashid’s absence, Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Noor Ahmed will have to shoulder additional responsibility in Afghanistan’s spin department.

Last month, Afghanistan announced a 15-man squad for the Sri Lanka ODIs, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi.

Having qualified directly for the upcoming ODI World Cup, Afghanistan are eyeing the series against Sri Lanka in October-November to prepare for the all-important event in India.(IANS)

read this also – Click to read the news of your state / city before the newspaper