Controversy Over Age Hits Afghanistan Sensation Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Afghanistan cricketer Mujeeb Ur Rahman appeals during the Asia Cup 2018 cricket match between India and Afghanistan at Dubai International cricket stadium,Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 09-25-2018 (Photo by Tharaka Basnayaka/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Here comes the latest controversy in the game of cricket, Mujeeb ur Rahman, who was lauded for his exceptional talent with the ball found himself in a controversy over age. The orthodox spinner impressed one and all with his performances in U19 ICC World Cup, which paved him a way to get the million dollar deal in Indian Premier League.

He got the limelight across the world when he delivered the goods for Kings XI Punjab. Later, he became the integral member in Afghanistan bowling set-up. However, the fresh controversy might send the negative vibe to the youngster’s career.

Mujeeb ur Rahman attended International trials in 2010 – Rashid Latif

As per the records in Wikipedia and ESPN Cricinfo, Mujeeb ur Rahman’s current age is just 17 as he was born on March 28, 2001. But, after the recent interview by the Afghanistan coach, Rashid Latif, it seems to be the age of Mujeeb is fake.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Controversy over Age
Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Photo by Rahul Gulati /SPORTZPICS for BCCI)

As per the lines by Rashid, Mujeeb attended the international trials in 2010, which means at the age of 9, as per the records. Probably, one cannot attend the International trials, if he is aged just 9.

“I was approached by Hamid Shinwari, the then CEO of the board. And, I travelled to Afghanistan to find a good bunch of players during a short camp in Kabul. Mujeeb, Shahidi, Zazai and a few others were potentially good cricketers,” Latif told Dawn.

Rashid Latif, Pakistan, Afghanistan
Rashid Latif (AFP PHOTO/ Asif HASSAN)

“On-field skills are one aspect of the game, but the attitude of the Afghan cricketers is unmatched. They respect their teachers so much. A single motivational sentence can make them give their all. Still, they need mentoring more than coaching,” he concluded.

However, it would be interesting to see how the things would pan out for the youngster. Meanwhile, there are also rumours going on Rashid Khan’s age as well. Despite all, they both got immense talent, which demands respect.

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