Mohammad Nabi hints at retirement after playing with son Hasan Ishaq

KATHMANDU: Afghanistan’s star all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has hinted that he will retire from international cricket only after playing alongside his son, Hasan Ishaq.

Speaking to the ICC, Nabi, 40, confirmed that he has no immediate retirement plans and expressed his desire to share the field with his son at the international level.

Last November, Nabi had announced his decision to retire from ODI cricket after the Champions Trophy. However, he now suggests that he may continue playing a few more ODIs to provide young players with valuable experience.

His 18-year-old son, Hasan Ishaq, represented Afghanistan in the U-19 World Cup last year.

Afghanistan is set to compete in Group B of the Champions Trophy, alongside England, Australia, and South Africa. This marks Afghanistan’s debut in the tournament after finishing among the top eight teams in the 2023 ODI World Cup. The team also reached the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup.

“Our preparation for the Champions Trophy has been solid,” Nabi said. “I was busy with the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), where we won the title. I also had three training sessions with the national team in Abu Dhabi, so I feel in good form.”

Reflecting on his BPL success, Nabi added, “Winning the final in tough conditions boosted my confidence. We performed exceptionally well, and I contributed with both bat and ball, helping the team win four or five games.”

Afghanistan has made one change to its 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy, replacing injured bowler Allah Ghazanfar with left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote.

“Ghazanfar is a promising young talent who has performed exceptionally well over the past two years,” Nabi said. “He is a quality spinner and a brilliant fielder. His performances against South Africa and Ireland in Sharjah were outstanding.”

Afghanistan will begin its Champions Trophy campaign against South Africa on Feb 21 in Karachi.