In preparation for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup set to commence on October 5th in India, Afghanistan's cricket team has made a significant addition to their coaching staff. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced the appointment of former Indian cricket captain Ajay Jadeja as the team mentor for the tournament.
Afghanistan, a relatively new entrant to the world of international cricket, made their debut in the ICC World Cup in 2015. However, their performance in previous editions has been less than stellar, with just one victory against Scotland in the 2015 tournament and a winless campaign in the 2019 World Cup. The team is looking to improve their prospects in the upcoming World Cup, particularly in matches played on spin-friendly Indian pitches.
Ajay Jadeja, who enjoyed a successful international cricket career representing India, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Afghan team. Jadeja, during his international career, played 196 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for India, amassing an impressive record of six centuries and 30 half-centuries with an average of 37.47. He also featured in 15 Test matches and numerous first-class and List A games, showcasing his versatility as a cricketer.
Afghanistan's campaign in the ODI World Cup begins on October 7th when they face Bangladesh at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. Their second match in the tournament is scheduled for October 11th against the host nation, India, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
The Afghan team, led by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, comprises a mix of talented players including Rahmat Shah, Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Nabi, who are expected to play pivotal roles in the team's performance during the World Cup.
With Ajay Jadeja joining the coaching staff as a mentor, Afghanistan hopes to benefit from his extensive cricketing experience and strategical insights, aiming for a successful campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023.
