Mohammad Nabi impressed with Rashid Khan's debut performance

It was a proud day for Afghanistan cricket when two of their national team players were picked up in the Indian Premier League auction that took place in the month of February, by the defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad. It was leg-spinner Rashid Khan and off-spinner Mohammad Nabi who got the chance to play in one of the most prestigious domestic tournaments in India.

The leg-spinner from Afghanistan, Rashid Khan even made it to the Sunriser’s squad in the tournament opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore and picked up two important wickets for his team which delighted Mohammad Nabi, who saw his Afghanistan teammate perform, from the bench.

The 18 year old took a wicket in his very first over which provoked Nabi to pump his fists in celebration and yell out a cry from the dugout. This is the first time a Afghan player is playing in the league and the two players have the burden of living up to the expectations of the franchise.

Nabi quoted Hindustan Times “We are here to prove that there is talent in Afghanistan. Rashid’s performance was important. It is a good start”

According to Nabi, Rashid was a bit nervous as he was informed on the match day that he would be a part of the playing XI.

“He (was) already under pressure; everything is new and he has been picked for a big price”

The senior pro also spoke about the piece of advice he gave to his young teammate before he went out to bowl.

“He was nervous, the stadium was packed and there were such big names around, also the wicket was flat. I told him if he errs on this wicket ‘bahut maar padegi’. Just bowl with a big heart. He will build on this start.”

The 32-year-old also felt that this was not Rashid’s best performance as he is yet to bowl with full confidence.

“He was rushing it up, ending up bowling too full or pitching it short. Wait till he starts bowling with confidence, then we will see the real Rashid.”