Afghanistan’s star cricketer Mohammad Nabi will retire from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) after the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed this news, marking the end of a significant chapter in Afghan cricket.
ACB Confirms Retirement Plans
The ACB announced Nabi’s retirement, with CEO Naseeb Khan sharing that Nabi had informed them months ago. “Nabi expressed his wish to retire after the Champions Trophy, and we fully respect his decision,” Khan told Cricbuzz. The board’s response shows the high regard Afghan cricket has for Nabi.
Nabi to Focus on T20 Cricket
Nabi plans to continue playing T20 cricket after his ODI retirement. His choice to leave ODIs but focus on T20s aligns with many senior players who are opting for shorter formats. The board highlighted his ongoing value in T20s, where his skills remain crucial for Afghanistan.
Nabi’s Influential Career
Known as “The President” for his leadership, Nabi has shaped Afghan cricket since his debut in 2009. Over his 15-year career, he has played 165 ODIs, scored 3,549 runs, and taken 171 wickets, making him one of Afghanistan’s most reliable all-rounders. His consistent performances with both bat and ball have made him a true pillar for the team.
Memorable Performances Over the Years
Nabi’s career is filled with memorable moments. He scored a half-century in his debut match against Scotland, showcasing his potential early on. Recently, he added another highlight to his ODI career with an 82-run innings against Bangladesh in Sharjah, demonstrating that he remains a critical asset in Afghanistan’s lineup. Such performances have defined his journey, making him an inspirational figure for Afghan cricket fans.
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Test Cricket Retirement in 2019
Nabi retired from Test cricket in 2019 to focus on Afghanistan’s limited-overs formats. This shift allowed him to bring more energy and focus to ODIs and T20s, where his presence continued to strengthen Afghanistan’s performances. His experience in high-pressure games has helped shape Afghanistan’s approach, especially as the team has risen in global rankings.
Legacy of Mohammad Nabi
Nabi’s retirement from ODIs will leave a void in Afghanistan’s lineup. Known for his calm demeanor and powerful play, he has been a mentor to younger players and a stabilizing force in the team. His career exemplifies resilience and adaptability, helping to elevate Afghan cricket on the world stage.
Focus on Champions Trophy 2025
As Afghanistan heads into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Nabi will have a final opportunity to make his mark in ODI cricket. Fans and teammates alike will be watching to see if he can cap his career with standout performances in Pakistan. His farewell will be a historic moment for Afghanistan, closing a chapter in the rise of Afghan cricket with one of its most respected players.
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