Veteran Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has openly acknowledged the important role played by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in the development of Afghanistan cricket. Speaking during his stint with Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, Nabi said that India’s support gave Afghan cricket much-needed exposure at a crucial stage of its growth.
He highlighted how facilities built with Indian assistance, including a cricket ground in Kandahar, helped create opportunities for players back home. According to Nabi, such backing was vital for a team that was still finding its footing on the international stage and looking for platforms to compete and learn alongside stronger cricketing nations.
IPL Exposure Helped Shape Afghan Players
Nabi underlined that one of the biggest benefits for Afghanistan cricketers has been the opportunity to play in the Indian Premier League. He noted that nearly 9–10 Afghan players featured in the IPL last year, gaining experience against the world’s best cricketers. This exposure, he explained, has had a direct impact on the national team’s performance, as players returned more confident and tactically aware.
Facing high-pressure situations, world-class bowling attacks, and elite batting line-ups in the IPL helped Afghan players raise their overall standard. Nabi stressed that such leagues not only improve individual skills but also strengthen team mindset, something Afghanistan has increasingly shown in major tournaments.
Looking Ahead to Bigger Goals
Reflecting on the journey of Afghanistan cricket since 2001, Nabi described it as a path filled with challenges, setbacks, and steady progress. From humble beginnings, the team has now become a regular participant in World Cups and has even reached a World Cup semifinal, which Nabi described as a proud moment for the nation.
He said Afghanistan cricket is currently at a strong level and aims to move even higher in the coming years. Looking ahead to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Nabi believes subcontinent conditions will suit Afghan players well, especially given their IPL experience.
He also expressed hope that Afghanistan would perform better than in the previous World Cup and eventually host major international events at home. Above all, Nabi said he remains happy and motivated, continuing to enjoy the game while contributing to Afghanistan cricket’s evolving story.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
