Exclusive: Afghanistan’s Red-Ball Future Hinges on More Test Matches

Afghanistan’s rise in cricket has been nothing short of remarkable, but for the nation to shine in Test cricket, they need more opportunities to play.

That’s the view of Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) president Mirwais Ashraf, who believes consistent exposure to the longest format is essential for their development.

Ashraf, a former national all-rounder, is now in his second term as ACB president after a productive first stint spanning three years. Speaking to SportBoom.com, he highlighted how Afghanistan has already reaped the rewards of long-term planning in T20 cricket, where they have become a competitive force.

Afghanistan recently clinched the two-match Test series against Zimbabwe after earning a massive 232-run win over the host in the second Test following the first Test, which failed to produce any result due to rain.

The victory against Zimbabwe was a milestone, but Ashraf knows bigger challenges lie ahead.

RED-BALL CRICKET: THE ULTIMATE TEST OF SKILLS

“Red-ball cricket has always been the pinnacle of the game for us. Personally, as a former player, I hold red-ball cricket in the highest regard due to its role in shaping players' technical and mental skills. Recognising the importance of the format, we have developed comprehensive plans to strengthen our red-ball structure and elevate it to the next level,” Ashraf told SportBoom.com. 

“Our efforts begin at the grassroots level, with club competitions conducted across various provinces. These matches are played in a 50-over format using red balls and white kits, which helps the players understand and adapt to the demands of red-ball cricket. Building on this, we organize the Grade II One-Day Provincial Tournament, which is also played with the red ball to ensure players gain consistent exposure to this format from an early stage."

“Furthermore, our domestic structure features regular regional two-day and three-day competitions held annually. The highlight of our red-ball cricket calendar is the First-Class competition, where the top five teams from across the country compete in a double round-robin format."

“In addition to the red-ball tournaments included in our domestic calendar, we have also upgraded major cricket venues in Nangarhar and Khost provinces. The turfs used for hosting First-Class games are designed to help players refine their skills in red-ball cricket."

“The future of the red-ball game in Afghanistan also largely depends on the number of Test matches we play at the international level. The more Test cricket we play, the more our players will be mentally engaged with this format. Considering the efforts we are currently making, we remain optimistic about the bright future of red-ball cricket in Afghanistan,” Ashraf added. 

TEST CRICKET IS THE FORMAT RASHID ADMIRES

As Afghanistan works to establish itself in Test cricket, the role of star players like Rashid Khan becomes even more critical.

The star leg-spinner had been absent from Test cricket for some time due to a back injury. When he missed the opening Test against Zimbabwe, it sparked speculation about his future in the format, with many wondering if the iconic bowler was considering stepping away from the longer game.

Rashid, however, silenced the rumours in emphatic fashion, delivering a match-winning performance in the second Test against Zimbabwe. His display reaffirmed his credentials and commitment to red-ball cricket.

ACB president Mirwais Ashraf acknowledged Rashid’s unique position as a global franchise star while emphasising his value to Afghanistan’s Test ambitions.

“Rashid Khan is one of the most important members of our senior team. He has been out of red-ball cricket for a while, following all the instructions and advice from his doctor,” Ashraf said.

“Test cricket is the format he admires, and he has a strong record in it as well. He will definitely be wearing the white kit."

Afghanistan’s journey in cricket continues to inspire, with red-ball cricket presenting the next big frontier. Guided by strategic grassroots initiatives, an evolving domestic structure, and the leadership of players like Rashid Khan, the nation is determined to carve a niche in Test cricket.

The recent triumph against Zimbabwe is a testament to their potential, but sustaining success in the longest format will require consistent international opportunities.

With a clear vision and unwavering optimism, Afghanistan is poised to not just compete but thrive in Test cricket, symbolizing the resilience and ambition that define their rise on the global stage.