Afghanistan's iconic allrounder Mohammad Nabi is set to retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) following the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chief executive, Naseeb Khan, confirmed the decision, revealing that Nabi expressed his desire to step away from the 50-over format several months ago. "Yes, Nabi is retiring from ODIs after the Champions Trophy and he informed the board about his desire," said Khan in a statement to Cricbuzz.
This decision marks the end of an incredible ODI journey for Nabi, who has been a central figure in Afghanistan's rise on the international cricket stage. Although he will step away from ODIs, he is expected to continue his T20 career, a format where his experience and skills remain invaluable.
A pioneering career: Nabi’s ODI journey
Nabi’s ODI career is a story of dedication and resilience. Since Afghanistan’s inaugural ODI against Scotland in 2009, Nabi has been a pillar of Afghan cricket. In that debut match, he scored a half-century, an early glimpse of the talent he would consistently display for over a decade. Across 165 ODIs, he scored 3,549 runs at an average of 27.30, while also taking 171 wickets, showcasing his prowess as both a batter and a bowler. His all-round abilities have often turned the tide for Afghanistan, making him one of the most dependable players in the team.
His recent knock of 82 runs against Bangladesh in Sharjah highlighted his continued form and impact on the field. Nabi's performance helped Afghanistan post a competitive total, which was defended successfully with the help of Allah Ghazanfar’s six-wicket haul. Such contributions reinforce the impact he has had on Afghan cricket, as well as the legacy he will leave behind.
A lasting legacy beyond ODIs
While Nabi’s departure from ODIs is a significant change for Afghanistan, fans can expect to see him continue in T20 matches. His T20 experience, especially in franchise leagues across the world, remains crucial for Afghanistan's aspirations in the shorter format. "After the Champions Trophy, what I understand is that he is expected to continue his T20 career, and that is the plan until now," added Khan.
Nabi's contributions have extended beyond individual performances. As a former captain and senior player, his mentorship has played a key role in guiding younger players, inspiring a generation of cricketers to believe in Afghanistan’s potential on the world stage.
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With his retirement from ODIs, Afghanistan bids farewell to one of its most loyal and versatile players in the 50-over format. Nabi’s journey reflects the rapid progress of Afghan cricket, with his career being a testament to the team’s rise in global rankings. Fans, teammates, and the cricketing world will celebrate Nabi’s last ODI appearance at the Champions Trophy, as he looks to cap off an illustrious ODI career.
Nabi’s presence in the Afghan cricket scene will continue to inspire young talent and fuel Afghanistan’s ambitions. While his farewell from ODIs will be an emotional moment, his legacy and influence on Afghan cricket will remain unforgettable.
