Afghanistan players may likely be one hundred percent available for the upcoming sixth season of Pakistan Super League.
The series, which comprised of two Test and three T20I, is set to be postponed due to a lack of preparation for Zimbabwe’s players after a recent surge in Covid-19. Now it is unknown for whether will the series will go as planned.
If the series is postponed or cancelled, then Afghanistan players will be available for full PSL matches. Star players like Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan will be featuring this season. When they were picked, it was stated that they will miss the first few matches of the league. However, given the recent incident, it now look to be unlikely unless quick arrangements are made.
There were new lockdown restrictions made in Zimbabwe after there was a spike in Covid-19 cases. The Zimbabwe Cricket Board (ZC) also announced to put a hold on all cricket activities within the country, including the men’s domestic T20 competition. If they wish to tour, ZC have to apply for exemptions from the country’s Sports and Recreation Commission.
Oman a new home for Afghanistan matches?
What interesting is that due to political issues in both Afghanistan and India, Afghanistan were looking at alternate options in Oman. Oman does not have a “Full Member” status but is a leading Associates country. They are also set to become an enticing destination much like its neighbors UAE.
Al Amerat Cricket Stadium in Oman
Oman Cricket director Pankaj Khimji, who last month narrowly missed out on being elected onto the International Cricket Council’s Board, had to say about hosting international matches;
“We are more than happy to host anyone. Any Associates country would dream of that. We have a superb facility surrounded by mountains. Visiting cricketers really love playing here.”
Meanwhile, both Afghanistan and Zimbabwe last played Test matches about twelve months ago. Since gaining Full Member status in 2017, Afghanistan have played four matches so far, with their last Test was a defeat against the West Indies in India in November 2019.
As for Zimbabwe, it was against Bangladesh in Dhaka just under 12 months ago where the host defeated the by an innings and 106-run.
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