5 reasons why Afghanistan deserve Test status

#3 A pool of talented and skilled cricketers

Afghanistan have some experienced players in the squad

The key to attaining Test status for any nation is whether they are ready for the challenges of Test cricket. Hence, what the ICC mainly looks for is the calibre and skills of cricketers who represent the particular country.

In this regard, Afghanistan are on the right track as several players possess the talent as well as the technique required to play the longest format of the game.

Mohammad Nabi, Afghanistan’s most experienced cricketer, has featured in 83 ODIs and possesses a solid temperament and patience. The same can be said about Mohammad Shahzad, the team’s preferred choice for the wicket-keeping position. He averages 33 in the ODI format and is more than capable of playing Test cricket.

Samiullah Shenwari has represented the country ever since 2009 and has the experience of playing in various conditions. Asghar Stanikzai has also featured in 75 ODIs while the young Rashid Khan, the new poster boy of Afghanistan cricket, has taken the world by storm with his wily leg-spin bowling.

The mix of experienced and young players in the team makes Afghanistan a competitive unit for the longest format of the game.