Rashid Khan, Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal to play for World XI

Afghanistan leggie Rashid Khan, along with the Bangladesh duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal, have confirmed their participation for the World XI vs West Indies charity game on 31st May.

Rashid, the top-ranked bowler in T20Is, spoke about how honored he felt after being part of the lineup.

“It is a matter of great honour and pride for me and my country that I have been chosen to support one of cricket’s oldest and most loyal members. I don’t think it will be incorrect to say that a number of cricketers from this and previous generations were inspired and attracted to cricket due to the heroics of the West Indies sides of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. And if the West Indies are now looking upon us for help, then there shouldn’t be a hesitation for even a second.

“Apart from my cricket obligations and responsibilities, the incentive of playing in this great match at the Home of Cricket at the age of 19, with and against some of the best cricketers of this generation, is just too tempting, irresistible and an icing on the cake," he told the ICC website.

Shakib Al Hasan, who is currently playing with Rashid Khan for the Sunrisers Hyderabad, was also added to the side, along with Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal.

Iqbal spoke about how the opportunity at Lord's (his only international appearance at the venue was in 2001) will be a memorable experience.

“Cricket is a sport which unites people, bridges gaps, and in which players and teams support each other. This match is a testament to this statement and I am delighted to have been chosen to once again represent the ICC World XI for a cause which will only make cricket a bigger and better sport".

The charity game, set to be played to garner funds for the victims of hurricanes in the Carribean last year, will be held on the 31st of May at Lord's. The West Indian side will be led by Carlos Brathwaite, and will also include big names in the form of Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels in its ranks.