Rashid Khan Uncertain About Future in Test Cricket Due to Injury Concerns
Afghanistan’s star spinner, Rashid Khan, has expressed doubts about playing many Test matches in the future. This comes after he underwent back surgery, which has led to serious concerns about his workload. Speaking to the media following an impressive performance in the IPL 2026, Rashid shared that his doctor has advised him to steer clear of red-ball cricket.
With a Test match against India scheduled for June in New Chandigarh, Rashid admitted he may not be able to play. He made history as part of Afghanistan’s first-ever Test match, which took place against India in 2018.
“Red-ball cricket is quite challenging for me,” Rashid stated. “My doctor clearly said, ‘avoid red-ball cricket.’ Even after surgery, I played in a game against Zimbabwe, where I bowled an exhausting 67 overs. My doctor was surprised when he found out and warned me that this could impact my long-term playing career.”
Since Afghanistan achieved Test status in 2017, the team has played 12 Tests, with Rashid participating in only six.
Focus on 2027 ODI World Cup
Looking ahead, Rashid plans to focus on white-ball cricket, especially One Day Internationals, as he aims for the ODI World Cup in 2027. He is expected to play in a three-match ODI series against India in June.
“I really enjoy ODI cricket and feel fit enough to continue playing it for Afghanistan,” he said. “However, I have to be cautious about my workload to ensure a longer career. Playing more than one Test match a year seems challenging for me. If I bowl 20–25 overs in a Test, it can strain my back.”
Rashid recalled his last two Test matches where he bowled an exhausting 126 overs, a feat he now realizes was too much. “It’s crucial for me to take it easy and prepare for the World Cup. I can’t risk worsening my back during a Test match,” he explained.
His ongoing battle with a chronic lower-back issue escalated in November 2023, leading to surgery in the UK. Rashid played through the ODI World Cup at just 40% fitness and thought he had successfully returned to competitive cricket early in 2024. However, repeated league matches soon revealed that his recovery wasn’t as solid as hoped, resulting in stiffness and his eventual withdrawal from Test cricket.
While he briefly returned to Test action in January 2025 with a staggering 11-wicket haul against Zimbabwe, he faced ongoing issues that impacted his performance during IPL 2025.
After a two-month break focused on conditioning and technique, Rashid made a strong comeback. In his recent game, he helped his team, the Gujarat Titans, secure a thrilling win over the Delhi Capitals, taking 3 wickets for just 17 runs. This victory also broke a two-match losing streak for his team.
As Rashid looks to the future, he remains focused on his health and the ongoing journey of his cricket career.
