Afghanistan star prioritizes long-term fitness and white-ball cricket after 2023 injury setback

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Afghanistan’s premier legspinner Rashid Khan has revealed that he will significantly reduce his involvement in Test cricket, opting to play just one match per year to manage his workload and extend his international career. The decision comes in the aftermath of a persistent back injury he suffered in 2023.

The 27-year-old, who currently leads Afghanistan in T20Is, admitted that medical advice played a crucial role in reshaping his priorities. Despite warnings, Rashid pushed himself during a Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo in January 2025, where he bowled a heavy workload that raised concerns about his long-term fitness.

Reflecting on the experience, Rashid acknowledged that overexertion in red-ball cricket could jeopardize his career. Medical experts had cautioned him that continuing to play long-format matches at such intensity might shorten his time in the sport. This realization has led him to adopt a more cautious approach moving forward.

Rashid had initially delayed surgery during the lead-up to the 2023 ODI World Cup in order to continue representing Afghanistan. However, that decision impacted his bowling effectiveness and caused prolonged discomfort, reinforcing the need for better workload management.

As a result, Rashid is unlikely to feature in Afghanistan’s upcoming Test against India on June 6. Instead, he plans to focus on formats that are less physically demanding, particularly ODIs and T20Is, where he believes he can contribute consistently over a longer period.

Currently active in IPL 2026 with Gujarat Titans, Rashid has already made an impact with the ball and remains a key figure in franchise cricket. Looking ahead, his primary goal is to stay fit for major tournaments, including the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.

While he has not ruled out playing Test cricket entirely, Rashid emphasized that his participation will be limited and carefully planned. With workload and longevity now at the forefront, the Afghan superstar is prioritizing sustainability over volume as he continues to serve his national team.