Pybus backs Nabi for Afghanistan cricket future

Mohammad Nabi, 41, has been dropped from Afghanistan’s upcoming T20I series in Zimbabwe following a disappointing performance against India last month. The veteran all-rounder failed to make an impact with either bat or ball during the three-match T20I series, managing scores of 8, 20 and 33 while taking no wickets. However, Nabi has retained his place in the ODI squad for a triangular series against Zimbabwe and Bangladesh, with the Afghanistan Cricket Board keen to have him available until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Afghanistan coach Richard Pybus has backed Nabi to continue contributing to the team across multiple formats.

“I think Nabi’s got something to contribute in the formats which he’s available for,” Pybus said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Nabi’s physical conditioning is a big strength: Pybus

Pybus highlighted Nabi’s physical conditioning as a particular strength. GPS tracking data showed that despite being a mature cricketer, Nabi remained in excellent shape during training and matches. The coach stressed that consistency remains essential for any player at international level, but expressed confidence in Nabi’s future contribution.

“In terms of his physical conditioning even though he’s a mature cricketer, he really is in good shape and it was really positive to see. We get the data back when we’re tracking the guys with the GPS and he held up really well,” Pybus said.

Afghanistan’s Test cricket preparation

Afghanistan will face Bangladesh in a one-off Test starting October 9 in Abu Dhabi, providing an opportunity to assess the team’s red-ball progress. Bangladesh arrived in the region following a successful tour of Australia, presenting a challenging fixture for Pybus’s side as they continue their Test cricket development.

“Now coming and playing against Bangladesh who are coming off a successful tour to Australia is a good opportunity for us to check in where we’re at in Test format,” Pybus said.

Pybus outlined Afghanistan’s strategic approach to Test cricket development, emphasising the importance of individual game awareness and innings construction. The coach noted that facing experienced international bowlers required a different mindset than domestic cricket.

“It is more about our preparation. You know, when you’re facing quick bowlers, whether they be right or left or whether they’re pace or swing, you know this isn’t club cricket. I mean, these guys are experienced cricketers. It’s us really focusing on how we develop our own games, our own cricket awareness, and managing that, looking at things like innings construction as we continue to develop as a Test side. Innings construction not only as a team, but also as individuals,” Pybus said.

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