India vs Afghanistan: Visitors opt for a spin-heavy attack
What's the story
Afghanistan have named a 15-member squad for the upcoming one-off Test match against hosts India. The historical Test will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru and will start from June 14 onwards. The Afghans have named four spinners in the squad, which will be led by Asghar Stanikzai. Here is all you need to know about the Afghan squad.
Twitter Post
15-member squad of Afghanistan
Afghanistan squad for historic one-off Test against India#AFGvIND #HistoricTest pic.twitter.com/1mbZaQkszU
— Afghan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) May 29, 2018
Artillery
Rashid, Mujeeb to lead the 4-man spin show
Indian Premier League 2018 sensations Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman lead the spin show. The duo were excellent during the T20 tournament and troubled even premier batsmen with their sharpness. The duo picked up 35 wickets between them to cap off an excellent campaign. Besides the two youngsters, Zahir Khan and left-arm orthodox Hamza Hotak are the other options.
Inexperience
Inexperienced Afghans looking to impress
The Afghans know the Indian conditions well, but inexperience is something which is striking. A total of only 205 first-class games have been played between players of this squad. Only four players have the experience of 20+ first-class games with Mohammad Nabi leading the line with 32. The Afghans have done wonders in ODIs and they would hope to impress in Tests as well.
Information
Rashid hogs the limelight
Indian skipper Ajinkya Rahane praised Rashid Khan for his tremendous impact in T20Is and in IPL. Rahane has stated that one cannot take Rashid and the Afghans for granted. The stand-in skipper also assured that India will play with intensity and wouldn't take it lightly.