Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has announced that he will retire from Test cricket after his side’s one-off match against Bangladesh in Chattogram.
Along with playing in all three of Afghanistan’s Test matches to date, Nabi has 121 ODI appearances to his name, making 2699 runs and taking 128 wickets.
Having played a key role in Afghanistan’s ascension to ICC Full Member status, Nabi will now direct his focus to the limited-overs arena.
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“Test cricket is the most important format that every cricketer wishes to play,” said the 34-year-old. “I have served Afghanistan for the last 18 years. It was my dream, as well, to help Afghanistan obtain Test status and that dream is realised now. We have a maximum of 1-2 Tests per year and I want a youngster, instead of me, to get the chance to play, since the emerging youngsters are performing well in domestic cricket. Therefore, I want them to get the chance that they deserve so that we have a good Test team in the future, as well.
“I also intend to be well prepared for the ODI and T20 formats. These are white ball formats for which I will try to maintain my fitness. I will strive to play ODIs and T20s for Afghanistan for as long as I’m able to. I will share my experience with the youngsters, like I have done before, as well, whether it be in the camp or the ones who will be with me in the ODI or T20I squads.”
Afghanistan are currently in a strong position against Bangladesh in Nabi’s last Test. After making 342 in their first innings, thanks to a century from Rahmat Shah and 92 from Ashgar Afghan, the visitors bowled Bangladesh out for 205, with Rashid Khan taking 5-55. Afghanistan have reached 237-8 in their second innings, opening up a lead of 374, with two days remaining.
