Afghanistan fast bowler Hamid Hassan will call it a day from the ODI version after the completion of the World Cup. The Afghanistan selectors had sprung in the surprise when they had recalled the pacer into the team’s World Cup squad. The right-handed pacer had last played his ODI match for the country in 2016.
Thus, he was a big surprise in the World Cup squad of the team. Meanwhile, Hassan has thus far played 32 One Day International for Afghanistan. The pacer has stated the upcoming World Cup in England and Wales will be his swansong in the 50-overs version.
World Cup will be Hamid Hassan’s swansong in ODI format.
Meanwhile, Hamid Hassan has the skills to share the new ball responsibility with veteran Dawlat Zadran. Afghanistan cricket has taken giant steps in the last decade and they would like to impress in the World Cup.
Hamid Hassan also stated that he will continue to play the shortest version of the game but he would bid adieu to the ODI format.
“When a player goes through so many injuries and recovery processes, there are more chances of getting injured again,” Hassan said in an interview on the Afghan board’s Facebook page.
“Every player has to retire one day… I think it is better to retire when a player is performing well and before he becomes a burden for the team.
“Therefore, I decided to step aside form ODI cricket and continue playing T20 cricket for a few more years.”
Meanwhile, Hassan had gone through two knee surgeries in 2012. It was always a tough comeback for the fast bowler and he gave his gratitude to the Afghanistan board for putting their trust in his abilities.
“I’d also like to tell fans that I have proven my fitness (to) earn my place, having worked hard for the last six months in various fitness and training camps,” Hamid Hassan said.
“It’s been a long gap… I hope I’ll be able to perform well in the World Cup and repay the faith that fans and the board have shown in my ability.”
Afghanistan will play ODIs against Scotland and Ireland to begin their World Cup preparation. They will begin their World Cup campaign against Australia on 1st June at Bristol Cricket Ground.