Cricket enthusiasts were left in surprise and disappointment as Naveen-ul-Haq, the promising Afghan cricket sensation, found himself excluded from Afghanistan’s 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. This decision has raised questions about the rationale behind sidelining a young talent with a commendable track record.
Naveen-ul-Haq, at the age of 23, has already left his mark on the cricketing world. Having participated in seven One Day Internationals (ODIs), he boasts an impressive record of 14 wickets with an economy rate of 5.78. His versatility extends to different formats, as evident from his performances in various domestic and international leagues. He recently showcased his skills in the Vitality Blast while representing Leicestershire, securing four wickets in five matches.
The Afghan bowler’s proficiency was also on display during IPL 2023, where he claimed 11 wickets in eight matches for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). His rich experience spans across prominent tournaments such as the Big Bash League (BBL), Lanka Premier League (LPL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
Naveen-ul-Haq’s indirect response to his exclusion from Afghanistan’s Asia Cup squad has added an intriguing layer to the story. Through a cryptic message on his Instagram account, accompanied by a picture of himself, he expressed his sentiment. The caption, “No matter how well your eyes adjust to darkness, you will never mistake it for light,” while not explicitly linked to the omission, conveys his emotions and disappointment.
The omission has also thwarted the hopes of fans who were eagerly anticipating a showdown between Naveen-ul-Haq and Virat Kohli. The two players engaged in a heated altercation during IPL 2023, igniting a rivalry that fans were looking forward to seeing reignite on the Asia Cup stage. Unfortunately, Naveen’s absence from the squad has dashed these expectations, leaving fans yearning for a battle that may have to wait for another day.
