Cricket Enthusiasts Brace for Thrilling 100-ball Action as Mujeeb Ur Rahman Ruled out of T20 World Cup
In a setback for Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup campaign, star spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman has been ruled out of the tournament due to a recurring finger injury. The 22-year-old had missed the entire 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season for the same reason and will now be replaced in the national squad by opening batter Hazratullah Zazai.
Mujeeb’s injury, a sprain in the index finger of his bowling hand, resurfaced during Afghanistan’s opening fixture against Uganda. Despite featuring in that match, the talented bowler has not taken the field since due to the persistent issue.
In Mujeeb’s absence, Afghanistan have turned to the spin duo of Noor Ahmad and Nangeyalia Kharote to bolster their bowling attack. Noor, in particular, has impressed, taking 1 for 14 in the team’s recent victory over Papua New Guinea.
“He’s going to be a big part for us going forward, as these wickets continue to wear,” said Afghanistan’s coach, Jonathan Trott, praising the young spinner’s impact.
While Zazai may not be a like-for-like replacement for the injured Mujeeb, the left-handed opener’s inclusion will strengthen Afghanistan’s batting options. Zazai, who has featured in the last two T20 World Cups, holds the second-highest individual score in a men’s T20 international.
The loss of Mujeeb is undoubtedly a blow for Afghanistan, who have been playing like a “top-three-ranked team,” according to former cricketer Ganga. However, the team’s depth and the emergence of promising young talents like Noor Ahmad will be crucial as they navigate the remainder of the high-stakes 100-ball cricket tournament.
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