Mohammad Nabi Sets Sights Beyond Champions Trophy, Emphasizes Fitness for Future
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Afghanistan's veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, who was part of their first-ever ODI side, is not considering retirement and is looking to continue playing after the ICC Champions Trophy starting on February 19. His focus remains on fitness and supporting younger players.
Key Takeaways
- Nabi aims to continue beyond the Champions Trophy.
- Fitness will dictate his future participation.
- Confidence boosted by BPL victory.
- Younger players like Kharoti are emerging talents.
- Family aspirations include playing with his son, Hassan.
New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) Afghanistan's seasoned all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, who was a member of their inaugural ODI team, is not contemplating retirement yet and aims to continue playing beyond the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy commencing on February 19.
At the age of 40, Nabi remains a top-tier all-rounder, having recently led Fortune Barishal to victory in the Bangladesh Premier League. He is back with the national team, 16 years after being part of the squad that secured Afghanistan's first-ever ODI win against Scotland in Benoni.
He has yet to determine if the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 will mark his final international appearances. “I’m still contemplating my future. These may not be my last ODIs; I might play fewer matches to allow younger players to gain experience,” Nabi remarked, as quoted by the ICC. “I've talked with senior players about possibly participating in high-stakes games, but ultimately, it will depend on my fitness.”
“Preparations for the Champions Trophy have gone well. I’ve been active in the Bangladesh Premier League and emerged as a champion there. Now, I’m gearing up for the Champions Trophy. I completed three training sessions with the national team in Abu Dhabi, so I feel fit,” he added.
This senior player noted that his BPL triumph has boosted his morale, which he plans to carry into the prestigious eight-team tournament. “Winning the BPL has significantly enhanced my confidence, especially after coming through a challenging final. We performed excellently throughout the tournament, and my contributions in both bowling and batting were crucial in multiple matches. I am feeling very positive, which builds my confidence.”
Nabi is a part of Afghanistan's spinning contingent, which will be vital for their success in Pakistan, alongside Nangialai Kharoti, a promising 20-year-old left-arm spinner recently included in the squad. He has made an instant impact since his debut and will team up with Nabi and Rashid Khan, who currently leads the ICC Men’s ODI bowling rankings.
Nabi noted, “Kharoti is in the 15-man squad. He’s a young talent who has been excelling over the past two years. He’s not only a skilled spinner but also a proficient fielder. He bowled impressively against South Africa and Ireland in Sharjah.”
“I hope he secures more wickets in the Champions Trophy; that would be beneficial for the team. I’m also thrilled for Rash,” he said, referring to Rashid, who recently became the all-time leading wicket-taker in T20I cricket, surpassing Dwayne Bravo.
“He is the finest bowler globally in T20 formats, and Inshallah, he will reach 1000 wickets soon! He remains youthful, energetic, and driven for more wickets. On the field, he is competitive and brings extra energy. Off the field, he is down-to-earth and cherishes every moment away from cricket.”
“This trait is beneficial as he provides significant support to younger players. He reassures them and offers guidance for their development, making them feel at ease in the dressing room.”
Afghanistan finds itself in a group alongside Australia, South Africa, and England in their inaugural tournament appearance. They aim to build on their semifinals journey at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, with Nabi also aspiring for long-term success.
His son, Hassan Eisakhil, only 18, has begun to make his mark, and Nabi hopes they will one day share the field representing their nation.
He expressed, “It’s my dream (to play for Afghanistan together). I hope we can achieve it. He is performing exceptionally well; in his last two matches, he scored a hundred and 95. He is dedicated, and I am encouraging him to keep working hard.”
“I want him to set his own ambitions; to reach high-level cricket, hard work is essential. Scoring 50 or 60 isn’t sufficient; you need to exceed 100+. He is receptive and continuously striving. Whenever he has the opportunity to consult with me, I share advice to bolster his confidence for the game.”
Afghanistan will commence their campaign against South Africa in Karachi on February 21.
