Gulbadin Naib Leads Afghanistan's Rise
The team's success can be attributed to their preparation and training in Sharjah, where they have been based since the 2000s. The Sharjah Cricket Stadium and Academy have provided a platform for the team to develop their skills and become a competitive force in international cricket.
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Afghanistan's cricket team has been making waves in the international cricket scene, and their preparation and training in Sharjah have been a key factor in their success. The city's Sharjah Cricket Stadium has become a home away from home for the team, with many key players, including Mohammed Nabi and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, calling it their base.
The Sharjah Cricket Academy, which has 300 players, including 225 Afghans, provides a platform for young cricketers to train and develop their skills. The academy's head coach, Niaz-Ul-Aslam, believes that Afghanistan's team is no longer dependent on a few players, but has several impact players who can change the game. This is evident in their recent performances, including a win against Australia at the T20 World Cup last year.
Afghanistan's bowlers have been particularly impressive, with Azmatullah Omarzai recording the best bowling figures in ICC ODI tournaments with 9.5-0-58-5 against England in the 2025 Champions Trophy match at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Other notable bowlers include Mohammad Nabi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Shapoor Zadran, who have all taken four wickets in a match.
As Afghanistan prepares for their final group stage match in the ICC Champions Trophy, they will be looking to continue their winning streak and make a strong impression on the international cricket scene. With their strong team and impressive bowlers, they are a force to be reckoned with, and Gulbadin Naib will be leading the charge.