Afghanistan to play ODI series against Netherlands in Qatar

(Cricket news) Qatar will host a three match ODI series between Afghanistan and Netherlands starting from 21st January. All the matches will be played in West End Park International Cricket Stadium at Doha, the stadium has so far hosted 6 T20 matches and this will be the first 50 over game in the venue. Both teams will play each other after a decade long gap, the last time these sides met was in 2012 at Sharjah which Afghanistan won. They have played 6 matches overall in which Afghanistan leads with four victories. The players should be ready to start the season with a victory as Netherlands will also be seeking a win. Here are the top four players from Afghanistan to watch out for in the series.

 

Rashid Khan

 

Rashid is the leading wicket taker for the side in all the formats. The spinner will be leading the attack and will make sure the pitch is ready for some magical deliveries. The 23 year old is 10 wickets away from becoming the first bowler from his side to take 150 wickets in ODI’s or any in format. If he manages to do it in the first two matches then he can break Mitchell Starc’s record of 150 wickets in 77 matches, Rashid has 140 in 74 matches.

 

Mujeeb Ur Rahman

 

The finger spinner has been the next superstar after Rashid, Rahman is the fourth highest wicket taker for the side and had made his debut four years ago. He is the youngest player to pick up a five wicket haul in the 50 over format. The 20 year old can pick up wickets every time he bowls and has a lethal carrom ball which can put the batters in a maze.

 

Hashmatullah Shahidi

 

Shahidi will be leading the side in the series for the first time and has led the side through the batting exploits. The left hander usually bats in at number 4 or 3 and can stay in the crease until the team is out of danger. The team is fielding youngsters as Mohammad Nabi is also not playing, it will be a tough first assignment for Shahidi as he will try to inspire his teammates to get going during the matches.

 

Rahmat Shah

 

Rahmat has been the best batter for the side in recent times, the 28 year old has scored 5 centuries in the format which is only 1 behind Mohammad Shahzad who leads the list. Rahmat has been a consistent batter and has been involved in four of the seven 150 plus partnerships in the team’s ODI history. The right hander walks in at number 3 and can form a heavy run scoring partnership with Shahidi just like they did against Ireland last year.

 

Also read: On this day a year ago, India conquered fortress Gabba against all the odds

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