Revival of Patriotism: Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi Recalled Nationally
- Posted on December 30, 2023
- Sports
- By Arijit Dutta
- 253 Views
The Afghanistan Cricket Board welcomes pacers Farooqi and Naveen back into the T20 team to face UAE after prior denials of contracts. Despite investigations into their intentions, the squad announcement for the series underscores their return, signifying a potential turning point in Afghan cricket.
The
Afghanistan Cricket Board has announced its T20 team, including Fazalhaq
Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq, is set to face UAE in a three-match series. Both
players, initially denied central contracts and NOCs, are now back in the fold.
Their sudden reintegration marks a significant shift after their prior request
to exit contracts was declined.
Initially,
Farooqi and Naveen faced sanctions when they expressed their desire to opt out
of annual central contracts. The ACB's refusal was based on their perceived prioritization
of personal interests over national representation. However, their subsequent
change of heart led to discussions with the ACB, expressing their fervent wish
to represent Afghanistan again.
The board's statement acknowledged the players' renewed commitment and lauded their eagerness to collaborate closely. Despite this reconciliation, the ACB remains firm on conducting a thorough investigation into the players' involvement in international events, maintaining the planned progression of these assessments.
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In
response to this turn of events, the Afghanistan squad for the upcoming T20I
series against UAE has been announced. Led by Ibrahim Zadran, the squad
features an array of talented players, including Rahmanullah Gurbaz,
Hazratullah Zazai, and Mohammad Nabi. Notably, Farooqi and Naveen are also part
of the selected roster, showcasing a significant turnaround.
The
squad announcement also reveals a list of reserves comprising influential
players like Rashid Khan and Gulbadin Naib, providing depth and options for the
team's composition.
This reunion of Farooqi and Naveen with the national squad signifies a pivotal moment in Afghanistan's cricketing landscape, reflecting both the players' renewed commitment and the board's willingness to reintegrate them into the team.