Afghanistan star cricketer Rashid Khan suffered a painful wrist injury during his team’s opening match against South Africa in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Karachi. The injury scare left fans worried, as Rashid is one of Afghanistan’s most valuable players in the tournament.
Rashid Khan Suffers Wrist Injury While Bowling
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The incident took place in the 21st over of South Africa’s innings. Rashid delivered a quick-length ball, which batter Ryan Rickelton played straight back to him. However, Rashid failed to collect the ball cleanly, and it struck his left wrist, leaving him in visible agony.
As he lay on the ground in pain, the Afghanistan team physio rushed in to assess the injury. After receiving medical attention, Rashid showed his determination by getting back on his feet and continuing to bowl. In a stunning comeback, he bowled a perfectly executed googly on his very next delivery, beating Rickelton completely.
The injury scare sent shockwaves among Afghanistan supporters, as Rashid Khan is crucial to their success in the Champions Trophy 2025.
South Africa Get Off to a Strong Start
After choosing to bat first, South Africa lost Tony de Zorzi early for 11, with Mohammad Nabi providing the breakthrough. However, Ryan Rickelton and Temba Bavuma stabilized the innings with a solid partnership.
- Rickelton played aggressively, reaching his half-century in just 48 balls.
- Bavuma built his innings steadily before falling for 58 off 76 balls, dismissed by Nabi.
Knowing that Rashid Khan was their biggest challenge, South African batters played him cautiously. Instead of taking unnecessary risks, they rotated the strike and punished the occasional loose ball. Rashid’s first spell resulted in 0-25 in five overs, while Mohammad Nabi picked up two wickets.
Rashid Khan Impact on Afghanistan Cricket
Rashid Khan is Afghanistan’s most successful cricketer, playing a pivotal role in putting Afghan cricket on the global stage. His performances over the years have been instrumental in the team’s rise in international cricket.
Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 Success Under Rashid Khan
Rashid led Afghanistan to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2024, taking 14 wickets in 8 matches at an impressive average of 12.78. Under his leadership, Afghanistan defeated top teams like New Zealand and Australia, securing a historic semi-final berth.
However, their dream run ended against South Africa in a hard-fought semi-final. Now, in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Afghanistan will be hoping to continue their strong performances and make a deep run in the tournament.
Will Rashid Khan Be Fully Fit for the Upcoming Matches?
With Rashid Khan’s wrist injury raising concerns, the Afghanistan team management will be closely monitoring his condition. His fitness will play a crucial role in Afghanistan’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
