Rashid Khan’s Post-Surgery Plans: Skipping the India Test?

Overview of Rashid Khan’s Condition

Afghanistan’s cricket star, Rashid Khan, has indicated that he might skip the upcoming one-off Test against India, set for June 2026 in Mullanpur. This decision comes as he continues to manage his recovery following lower-back surgery post the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Doctor’s Advice on Playing Test Cricket

Having undergone surgery, Rashid revealed that doctors have advised him to refrain from red-ball cricket. Although the chance to play a Test in India is enticing, he emphasized that maintaining his long-term health and being available for the 2027 ODI World Cup are his primary concerns.

Risks Associated with Returning Too Soon

Rashid acknowledged that participating in Test matches could hinder his recovery. "It’s a very tough question. The first thing the doctor told me was to stay away from red-ball cricket,” he noted after the Gujarat Titans’ victory against Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2026.

Despite this advice, Rashid did play in a Test against Zimbabwe last year, where he bowled 54 overs and took 11 wickets, demonstrating both his value to Afghanistan and the rigorous physical demands that come with Test cricket.

Focus on White-Ball Formats

Rashid expressed his comfort and preference for white-ball cricket, particularly in ODIs. “I enjoy ODIs and I’m in a good shape to play them for a longer period. However, I must manage my workload carefully to ensure a prolonged career,” he stated.

Limited Opportunities in Test Cricket

With Afghanistan having played only 12 Test matches since attaining Test status in 2017, Rashid suggested that prioritizing long-term health over occasional opportunities in the longer format is a more sensible choice. When asked about the upcoming Test against India, he reiterated his cautious approach: "I will take it easy and focus on preparing for the World Cup. If something happens to my back in that Test, it could affect my career."

Details of the India vs. Afghanistan Test Match

India will host Afghanistan for a one-off Test from June 6 to June 10, 2026, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. This match will mark the beginning of Afghanistan’s multi-format tour of India but will not be part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.

By prioritizing his health and future availability, Rashid Khan aims to ensure a successful career while remaining a pivotal player for Afghanistan’s cricketing ambitions.