Rashid Khan Has Been Ruled Out Of the T20I Series Against India.

In a major setback for Afghanistan, top spinner Rashid Khan has been ruled out of the much-awaited three-match T20I series against India. The experienced player had to undergo back surgery and is not yet fully fit to play. Rashid's absence could hurt Afghanistan in this series as he can score useful runs down the order and also get four quality overs with the ball.

Zadran confirmed the news -

Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran confirmed the development. In Rashid's absence, his Gujarat Titans teammate Noor Ahmad will lead Afghanistan's spin unit along with the formidable duo of Mujeeb-ur-Rahman and Mohammad Nabi.

Hazratullah Zazai will lead the batting line-up alongside Rahmanullah Gurbaz, with dynamic duo Ibrahim Zadran and Ikram Alikil at number three and four respectively. Brave southpaw Najibullah Zadran is expected to play the role of finisher along with all-round duo Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi.

Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq are expected to be the pacers, with former captain Gulbadin Naib likely to be number eight. Meanwhile, Mujeeb-ur-Rahman and Noor Ahmad will play as spin bowling options.

Afghanistan's probable playing XI for 1st T20I vs India -

Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran (C), Ikram Alikhil (WK), Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq