"Honour To Be Part....": Hashmatullah Shahidi On Playing Test Against New Zealand

Ahead of Afghanistan's historic one-off Test match against New Zealand, skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed his excitement and pride. He emphasized how significant the match will be, not only for the team but also for the Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground, where the fixture will take place.

Shahidi stated, "It is an honour to play in Greater Noida and be part of such a historic moment for the city." He noted the warm reception and support from cricket fans in India and highlighted the team's previous experiences practicing at the venue, making it a special place for them.

The match, scheduled from Monday, September 9 to Friday, September 13, will mark the first Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand, attracting over 10,000 spectators to the stadium. Shahidi also acknowledged the significance of Indian cricket fans and their passion for the sport, expressing hope that they would turn up in large numbers to support the team. He views this match as a wonderful opportunity to bring pride and glory to Afghanistan.

The squads for the match have been confirmed, with Afghanistan led by Shahidi and Tim Southee captaining New Zealand. Key players from both sides will look to make an impact in this much-anticipated fixture.

Afghanistan squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Abdul Malik, Rahmat Shah, Baheer Shah Mahboob, Ikram Alikhil (WK), Shahidullah Kamal, Gulbadin Naib, Afsar Zazai (WK), Azmatullah Omarzai, Ziaurrahman Akbar, Shamsurrahman, Qais Ahmad, Zahir Khan, Nijat Masoud, Farid Ahmad Malik, Naveed Zadran, Khalil Ahmad, Yama Arab.

New Zealand squad: Tim Southee (C), Tom Blundell (WK), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (VC), Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young .