In a remarkably short span since their debut in international cricket in 2009, Afgani Cricketers has flourished, transforming into a formidable force in white-ball cricket. Their players consistently grab attention for their outstanding performances on the global stage. In recent times, Afghan players have notably ventured into T20 franchise competitions worldwide.
In the cash-rich IPL, a handful of Afghan players have marked their presence, though only a select few have achieved notable success. Rashid Khan made history in 2017 as the first Afghan player to participate in the IPL, and since then, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the league. Alongside Rashid, several other Afghan players have also graced the T20 extravaganza.
Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan made a significant mark in the IPL. When he became the first Afghan player to debut in the league. Joining SRH in 2017 after being acquired for a notable INR 4 crore during the auction. Rashid played a crucial role in the team’s title defense. In his inaugural IPL season, he showcased his bowling prowess by trapping 17 batters in 14 matches at an impressive economy of 6.62. Securing the second-highest wicket-taker position behind his teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who claimed the coveted Purple Cap with 26 scalps in 14 contests.
From 2017 to 2021, Rashid continued to be a key asset for Sunrisers, making 76 appearances and taking 93 wickets at a commendable economy of 6.33. These figures solidified his position as the second-most successful bowler for SRH during that period. However, in 2022, the Orange Army decided to release him, leading to a significant turn in Rashid’s IPL journey.
The leg-spinner was then picked up by the newly-formed Gujarat Titans for a staggering sum of INR 15 crore ahead of the IPL 2022 auction. This move marked a new chapter in Rashid’s career, and he didn’t disappoint. In GT’s remarkable debut season, Rashid played a pivotal role in their title victory by contributing 19 wickets in 16 games, showcasing an exceptional economy of 6.59.
As of now, Rashid Khan has firmly established himself as a spin wizard in the IPL, scalping 124 wickets in 98 matches with an overall economy of 6.50. His journey from SRH to Gujarat Titans reflects not only his individual success but also his significant contributions to the success of the teams he has been a part of in the IPL.
Muhammad Nabi
Mohammad Nabi embarked on his cricketing journey with Afghanistan’s inaugural international appearance in 2009. Over his 14-year career, the proficient all-rounder significantly contributed to his team’s ascent in international cricket. In ODIs, he has amassed 2968 runs and claimed 144 wickets in 136 matches.
In T20 Internationals, Nabi has accumulated 1755 runs and taken 87 wickets in 107 matches, showcasing his prowess with both bat and ball. Leveraging his experience and versatile skills, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) enlisted him for the IPL.
A key member of the 2016 IPL champions until 2021. Nabi secured 180 runs and 13 wickets in 17 matches during his tenure. However, in the 2022 IPL season, despite Knight Riders acquiring him for INR 1 crore. He remained on the bench and didn’t feature in KKR’s playing XI.
Gurbaz
Rahmanullah Gurbaz plays a vital role in the Afghanistan cricket team, known for his dynamic batting and excellent wicket-keeping skills. With a four-year international career, he has been instrumental in securing victories for Afghanistan in white-ball cricket. In ODIs, the right-handed batsman has accumulated 582 runs, including three centuries and two half-centuries, in just 15 matches.
In the T20 format, he has participated in 41 matches. Scoring 1019 runs with five half-centuries at an impressive strike rate of 134.25. In 2022, he joined GT’s squad as a replacement for England’s Jason Roy, who withdrew from the tournament. Despite being part of the team, Gurbaz didn’t feature in the playing XI. Ahead of the 2023 IPL auction, Kolkata Knight Riders acquired him through the trading window from GT. Currently, the 21-year-old is contributing as an opening batsman and wicket-keeper for the two-time IPL champions. Amassing 102 runs in five matches with a strike rate of 117.24.
Naveen Ul Haq
Active in international cricket since 2016, Naveen-ul-Haq made his debut during Afghanistan’s tour of Bangladesh in 2016 in the first One-Day International (ODI). His entry into T20 Internationals occurred in 2019 during the Bangladesh Tri-Nation Series.
With 27 T20I appearances since then, he has secured 34 wickets at an economy of 8.10. Engaging in various domestic T20 leagues, Naveen-ul-Haq earned his first IPL contract during the December 2022 mini-auction in Kochi. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) acquired the 23-year-old at his base price of INR 50 lakh.
In his two games for the franchise, the young player showcased effectiveness with economical spells. In his second IPL match, Naveen achieved his maiden wicket by dismissing Vijay Shankar. Who batted at number five for Gujarat Titans (GT).