ODI World Cup 2023: Ajay Jadeja appointed as Afghanistan team mentor

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has roped in former Indian cricket captain Ajay Jadeja as the team mentor for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India. Jadeka will provide valuable insights and guidance to the Afghan squad as they prepare for the prestigious tournament.

During his international cricket career, which spanned from 1992 to 2000, Jadeja represented India in 15 Test matches and 196 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and will being his wealth of experience into the Afghanistan team. Notably, Jadeja scored an impressive 5359 runs at an average of 37.47, including six centuries and 30 half-centuries in ODIs and his vast cricketing knowledge and expertise are anticipated to be instrumental in enhancing Afghanistan's performance on the global stage.

Afghanistan's cricket journey has been a remarkable one, with their inclusion in major tournaments like the ICC World Cup. Although they have struggled to secure victories against top-tier teams, their recent performances have shown promise. With star players such as Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi in the lineup, Afghan fans are hopeful for a competitive showing in the upcoming World Cup.

The batting lineup is set to rely heavily on the explosive opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and the stylish Ibrahim Zadran. The middle order will be bolstered by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah, while Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, and Rashid Khan will have the finishing duties.

On the bowling front, Afghanistan boasts a formidable pace duo in Naveen Ul Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi. Farooqi's ability to swing the ball at speeds exceeding 140 km/h makes him a potent threawhile Naveen is known for his clever variations and deceptive slower deliveries, which can be particularly effective in the death overs. Meanwhile, the spin bowling responsibilities will primarily rest on the shoulders of the world-renowned Rashid  and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, with Nabi providing additional support. 

Afghanistan's ODI World Cup journey begins on October 7 against Bangladesh at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.