Asia Cup 2018: Afghanistan pacer ruled out of the tournament

Afghanistan had announced the 17-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup. This tournament can be an acid test for one of the emerging powers of the sport. They named three uncapped players in their squad including 18-year-old Wafadar Momand. The fast bowler who was impressive in his country’s inaugural Test vs India has been ruled out of Asia Cup due to injury.

The 18-year-old was training with the team ahead of the tournament but he suffered a back injury during the training. They took him for an MRI scan which showed that there was a nerve depression on his back. Afghanistan Cricket Board came forward to issue a statement mentioning that Wafadar has been advised to take rest for six weeks to recover from the injury. This is a huge setback for the youngster who bowled brilliantly in some spells against India in Afghanistan’s inaugural Test.

The right-arm fast bowler picked the wickets of Murali Vijay and Hardik Pandya in that Test. The Afghanistan Cricket Board was quick to announce the replacement for Wafadar in the form of Yamin Ahmadzai, who was in the reserve squad. Ahmadzai took three wickets against India in the inaugural Test.

Not the only setback

Wafadar Momand is not the only fast bowler missing the Asia Cup. Afghanistan would also be missing the services of another fast bowler, in the form of experienced Dawlat Zadran. He suffered an injury ahead of the T20I series against Bangladesh, and if reports are to be believed he will need another six weeks of rest.

Afghanistan would be hoping to make a mark on Asia Cup by qualifying for the next round. They have been placed in a group with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, avoiding the favourites India and Pakistan. They would be fancying their chances to make it to the next round if they play to their potential.

Afghanistan will begin their campaign against Sri Lanka on 17th of September.

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