AFG vs SL: In a big blow to Afghanistan’s ambitions, Mujeeb Ur Rahman has been ruled out of the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. Following the training session on the eve of the first ODI, the Afghanistan spinner underwent issues in his right pharynx. As a result of that, he won’t be part of any of the three ODIs against Sri Lanka.
Afghanistan are participating in the series already without the services of Rashid Khan. Khan has been recovering from the back surgery that he underwent after the 2023 World Cup. He had earlier missed the T20I series against India because of the same reason.
In Mujeeb’s absence, Qais Ahmed will be replacing him in the squad. Afghanistan Cricket Board shared the development in a statement shared on X.
“Mujeeb Ur Rahman sprained his right phalanx (hand) during the training session yesterday which ruled him out of the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. Wish you a swift & speedy recovery Muj!”, read the statement.
Earlier, Mujeeb Ur Rahman played two matches in the three-match T20I series against India. He picked two wickets in as many matches at an average of 26.50. In the 2023 World Cup, Mujeeb had picked nine wickets in eight games at an economy of 5.59. In his career thus far, the Afghanistan spinner has 101 wickets to his name in 75 one-day internationals.
SL vs AFG 1st ODI Live Score
The first ODI between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan is currently underway. Earlier, Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and elected to bowl first. Sri Lanka has managed to notch a pretty good score of 238 runs at the end of 37 overs for the loss of two wickets.
Pathum Nissanka is currently unbeaten on 116 off 97 deliveries, including 12 fours and 2 sixes. Avishka Fernando also played a stellar knock of 88 off as many deliveries. The duo provided a great start to the innings, adding 182 runs for the opening wicket.
As for Afghanistan’s bowling, Fareed Ahmad Malik and Mohammad Nabi have returned with one wicket each.
The second and third ODI of the series are slated to be played on 11th February and 14th February 2024. All the matches of the ODI series are scheduled to be played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele.
Following the ODI series, the two teams will lock horns with each other for three T20 internationals from 17th to 21st February 2024.
Read More: Ravindra Jadeja Responds To His Father’s Allegations on X
