Big blow to Afghanistan: Naveed Zadran ruled out of one-off Test vs New Zealand

Afghanistan fast bowler Naveed Zadran has been ruled out of the one-off Test against New Zealand. His unavailability is a big blow to Afghanistan who are already without Rashid Khan, who had been ruled out of this Test match.

Naveed Zadran has played two Tests in his career so far and claimed 9 wickets at an average of 22.55. He made his Test debut against Ireland in March this year where he was impressive with his ability to pick up wickets. He also picked up a four-wicket haul in his last Test against Sri Lanka.

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Naveed Zadran to miss one-off Test against New Zealand

Naveed Zadran has suffered a side strain injury and has been asked to rest for 3-4 weeks. He can make his comeback in Afghanistan's ODI series against South Africa which will be played in UAE.

Naveed's injury was confirmed by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on September 6 (Friday).

"Fast Bowler Naveed Zadran has been ruled out of Afghanistan’s only test match against New Zealand due to side strain injury. The physio has advised him to rest for 3-4 weeks hoping that he gets better before the South Africa ODI series in UAE. Get well soon Naveed!" ACB posted on X (formerly Twitter).

🚨 Update🚨

Fast Bowler Naveed Zadran has been ruled out of Afghanistan’s only test match against New Zealand due to side strain injury.

The physio has advised him to rest for 3-4 weeks hoping that he gets better before the South Africa ODI series in UAE.

Get well soon Naveed! pic.twitter.com/0n2YlfGd5p

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) September 6, 2024

Naveed Zadran has also played one ODI for Afghanistan in which he went wicketless. The 19-year-old is a product of Afghanistan's Under-19 cricket team. He relies on a good line and length and also bowls with a good pace.

Earlier, Rashid Khan was also ruled out of the Test match due to a back injury. With Naveed being unavailable, their bowling resources have taken a serious hit. It will be interesting to see which bowlers they prefer for this Test match.

Greater Noida to host the AFG vs NZ Test match

The one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand will be played in Greater Noida, India. The Test match will be played from September 9-13 at Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground. The New Zealand squad have already arrived in the city and they received a rousing reception upon their arrival.

Due to security concerns, the Afghans have been unable to play any international match in their home country so far. As a result, they play their home matches either in UAE or India. However, that is set to change very soon as they have already announced the series for the first time ever on their home soil against New Zealand and South Africa.