"This journey is far from over"- Mohammad Nabi on Afghanistan's 15th anniversary of international cricket debut
Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi penned a heartfelt note on the 15th anniversary of the international cricket debut for his nation on Friday, April 19. The Afghan side played their first-ever international game, an ODI, on this day, back in 2009 against Scotland in Benoni.
Nabi was also part of the historic game and ended up as the highest run scorer for his side after coming in at No. 3 position. On the back of Nabi's 58 (64) and a couple of decent contributions from other batters, Afghanistan managed to score 295/8 in the first innings of the encounter.
The bowling unit then bundled out the Scotland side for 206 in 40 overs to help the Afghans get off to a winning start in international cricket. It was the fifth-place playoff match of ICC World Cup qualifiers in 2009.
Mohammad Nabi took to his X handle today and shared an emotional post on the completion of 15 years for Afghanistan in international cricket. He wrote:
"OTD, Fifteen years ago, we etched history with our first international cricket match, a moment brimming with emotion and pride for all of us. Holding the title of the best player of the match was the most valuable player of the match for which fills me with everlasting pride."
Reminiscing about the Afghan team's journey, Nabi continued:
"Our journey stands as a testament to the perseverance and passion of our senior players, whose commitment has paved the way for the success we've achieved. Yet, this journey is far from over. It's a journey fueled by a relentless determination to excel, to reach new heights, and to make Afghanistan a force to be reckoned with in the cricket world."
He also opened up about future aspirations and expressed gratitude for the support from fans by adding:
"I dream of the day when Afghanistan commands the cricket world stage with authority and grace. With the unwavering support of our fellow countrymen, this dream is within reach. To every individual who has stood by us, cheered for us, and believed in us, I dedicate this journey. Long live Afghanistan."
A look at Mohammad Nabi's numbers in international cricket
Since making his debut in 2009, Mohammad Nabi has played 161 ODIs for the Afghanistan team. He has scored 3447 runs and picked up 169 wickets, fulfilling his job as an all-rounder for his nation.
In 121 T20I matches so far, the 39-year-old has scored 2109 runs with the bat and has scalped 93 wickets. Mohammad Nabi played only three Test matches so far in his international career. He has picked up eight wickets and scored 33 runs.