Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has stated that he will retire from One-Day Internationals after next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
The 39-year-old said he had been considering leaving the format since the ODI World Cup last year after Afghanistan’s 2-1 series victory over Bangladesh on Monday.
“I thought I was retired after the last World Cup. After winning Player-of-the-Series, he told the official broadcaster, “But then we qualified for the Champions Trophy, and I felt if I could play that, it would be great.”
Since 2009, Mohammad Nabi has played in 167 One-Day Internationals (ODIs). He has amassed 3,600 runs at an average of 27.48 and a strike rate of 86.99 in 147 innings, including two hundreds and 17 fifties, with a highest score of 136.
He’s taken 172 wickets in 161 innings with the ball in hand, including four four-wicket hauls and a fifer (5/17), at an average of 32.47 and an economy of 4.27.
Afghanistan’s sixth-place World Cup result from the previous year earned them a spot in the Champions Trophy.
Additionally, it would be Afghanistan’s first time participating in the eight-team tournament that will take place in Pakistan in February of the following year.
Afghanistan will soon have to say goodbye to Mohammad Nabi in the One Day International (ODI) format, one of the most moving moments in the country’s cricket history. After winning the 2025 Champions Trophy, Mohammad Nabi, a legendary figure in Afghan cricket, has declared his intention to retire from ODIs. Let’s examine Nabi’s career, his influence on cricket, and the implications of his legacy for Afghanistan’s squad going forward.
Overview of the Career of Muhammad Nabi
Early Life in Muhammad Nabi’s Life
Mohammad Nabi was born in Afghanistan’s Logar Province, and his journey to cricketing glory was anything but ordinary. Nabi has significant obstacles to overcome to follow his passion because he grew up in a nation with no sports infrastructure.
Getting Higher in Afghanistan’s Cricket Rankings
There was no denying Nabi’s promise, and his ascent from local cricket teams to playing for Afghanistan abroad signaled the start of Afghanistan’s ascent in the cricket world. He was part of the generation that helped Afghanistan move from Associate status to a full-member Test-playing nation.
Muhammad Nabi’s Effect on Afghan Cricket
More than just a player, Mohammad Nabi has been a cornerstone of Afghan cricket. His leadership, consistent performance, and international presence have propelled Afghanistan’s visibility in world cricket.
Mohammad Nabi’s Contributions to International Cricket
Key Milestones in ODI Cricket
From his ODI debut 2009, Nabi’s journey is laced with remarkable accomplishments. As a versatile all-rounder, he quickly became known for his powerful batting and effective off-spin bowling, making him a valuable asset in limited-overs and T20 formats.
Memorable Performances on the Global Stage
Nabi’s performances in World Cups and the Asia Cup showcased his caliber on a larger scale. His century against Zimbabwe, match-winning contributions against Bangladesh, and exceptional bowling performances are celebrated memories for Afghan cricket fans.
How Mohammad Nabi Inspired a Generation of Cricketers
More than statistics, Mohammad Nabi’s path is one of inspiration. As the first Afghan to compete in T20 worldwide, Nabi paved the path for other Afghan cricketers like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
The Choice to Step Down Following the 2025 Champions Trophy
The Champions Trophy: Why?
It feels appropriate that Mohammad Nabi will make his final ODI appearance at the 2025 Champions Trophy. His remarkable career will end with this competition, providing him one more chance to fight against the greatest in the world.
Personal and Professional Motivations
For Nabi, quitting after the Champions Trophy is a personal and strategic choice. He intends to retire so that future cricket players can take their place internationally as Afghanistan’s cricket skill pool continues to increase.
Fans’ and the cricket community’s responses
Players and fans throughout the world have offered messages of gratitude and support. Cricket legends have praised Nabi’s incredible development and contributions to the sport.
The Legacy of Muhammad Nabi in ODI Cricket
Highlights of His Career in Statistics
Nabi’s stats demonstrate a career of steady effort and success. He is one of Afghanistan’s best all-round players, with over 3000 runs and 150 wickets in ODIs.
Records Maintained and Notable Accomplishments
Mohammad Nabi is the first Afghan cricketer to hit an ODI century and holds the record for most wickets taken by Afghanistan in ODIs, among other milestones.
The Impact of Nabi on Afghan and International Cricket
Nabi’s participation in international cricket leagues contributed to Afghanistan’s prominence. Both players and fans were motivated by his dedication and professionalism.
What Comes Next for Afghanistan Cricket After Nabi?
The Development of Up-and-Coming Afghan Talent
With players like Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz making an impression, Afghanistan Cricket is in a solid position to continue Nabi’s legacy.
Continuing the Legacy of Mohammad Nabi
Nabi has always placed a strong emphasis on resilience and teamwork. Upcoming Afghan cricket players can expand upon these principles to reach even higher levels of success in the global game.
The Obstacles Afghanistan Cricket Faces
Even though Afghanistan has talented players, staying consistent and setting new records will only be possible with someone like Nabi.
Thoughts on the Influence of Muhammad Nabi Outside of Cricket
His Position as a National Hero
More than just a cricket player, Mohammad Nabi represents resiliency and hope to millions of people in Afghanistan.
Social Impact and Charitable Work
With an emphasis on humanitarian aid and education for Afghan children, Mohammad Nabi has utilized his position to participate in charitable endeavors.
The Things That Fans Will Miss Most
His charisma on the field, his ability to win games, and the pride he instilled in Afghan cricket will all be missed by fans.
In conclusion
Afghanistan cricket will enter a new chapter with the retirement of Mohammad Nabi. In addition to making Afghan cricket famous, his tremendous contribution, perseverance, and pioneering journey have inspired innumerable young athletes. Fans worldwide will be able to commemorate Nabi’s remarkable career and lasting influence on the game at the 2025 Champions Trophy, which will serve as a fitting backdrop for his final chapter in ODI cricket.
