Thu Dec 26 08:10:00 UTC 2024: **Afghanistan Star Spinner Rashid Khan to Miss Zimbabwe Test Debut**
BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE – Afghanistan’s star leg-spinner Rashid Khan will miss the opening Test match against Zimbabwe, starting December 26th, due to personal reasons. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed Khan’s absence, stating he is attending a charity event.
Khan, who was included in the 18-member squad despite recent back injury concerns and a period away from red-ball cricket, was notably absent from team photos released by the ACB showing the squad’s preparations in Bulawayo. His presence in the Netherlands, evidenced by a Facebook post, further confirmed his unavailability for the first Test.
While the ACB initially stated Khan would be absent from Test cricket until November, his selection for the Zimbabwe tour raised hopes of his return. However, the charity commitment will prevent him from participating in the series opener. His participation in the second Test, scheduled for January 2nd at the same venue, remains uncertain. The ACB has yet to release an official statement clarifying his status for the remainder of the series.
First Piper 