Expectations high as Afghans enter Test arena

Bangalore – Afghanistan face sky-high expectations at home ahead of their historic first-ever Test match starting today against India, captain Asghar Stanikzai has said.

The mood in war-scarred Afghanistan may also help the team when they step out at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to enjoy their newfound Test status, he told reporters on the eve of the game.

“It is itself history that we are playing the inaugural and historic Test match against the No 1 team in the world,” Stanikzai said.

“The mood back home is very positive. They expect us to perform well because recently Afghanistan performed really well in T20 and one day internationals and their expectation will be the same for Tests.”

Since gaining one day international status in 2009, the Afghans have made giant strides and qualified for their second 50-over World Cup in England and Wales next year. They have also been part of four Twenty20 World Cups.

Afghanistan, who have been forced to train in India since 2015 because of the conflict at home, have just secured a T20 series sweep over Bangladesh with teen sensation Rashid Khan now an international star.

The top T20 bowler in the ICC rankings, Khan took the Indian Premier League by storm with 21 wickets for runners-up Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Afghanistani coach Phil Simmons said that putting the spotlight on Khan is helping the other players focus on improving.

“Rashid is so professional, he knows how to deal with it. And while he is dealing with it the others have time to work on their own strategies,” said the former West Indies allrounder yesterday. “It’s a good thing for the team.” India will be without their captain Virat Kohli – the biggest name in world cricket – but Simmons said the home side have other weapons.

“I think there will always be a bit of disappointment in the players not to be on the same field as Virat, but at the same time we look to win the Test match and beat India, we don’t beat Virat,” said Simmons.