Triangular between Australia, Afghanistan & West Indies called off

The proposed T20I triangular series between Australia, Afghanistan & West Indies has been officially called off owing to logistical issues. This means that aussies can now join the IPL bandwagon without any hassle. Simultaneously it is also a major jolt to Afghanistan’s preparations due to unavailability of fixtures till October. Although the window still permits a brief series against the hosts, Sri Lanka. But it depends on the will, wisdom and vision of ACB to negotiate with their partners. It is very much necessary that Afghanistan plays at least few matches before the world cup. Besides them, every other board have arranged enough fixtures for their players.

ACB still has time to organise matches against Sri Lanka & Ireland

ACB can invite Ireland to join them for a series in Sri Lanka. In fact Afghanistan were to play a brief T20I bilateral against them in India as per the earlier schedule. Since the ICC event was relocated to UAE, it has disturbed all the equations especially for Afghanistan who plays all their home matches in emirates. Strategically, the BCCI have locked up all UAE venues owing to IPL. Therefore, it rules out any possibility to host any series or warm up matches there. So any kind of preparatory series will have to be staged in a different country. This is why the lankan island has become the most tactical place as an alternative venue.

ACB must act fast to fix a few series before it gets too late. However, Mohammad Ashraf Haidari, the afghan ambassador to Sri Lanka, have met the SLCB CEO & secretary to strengthen the bilateral ties between the two boards. He has also expressed his gratitude for facilitating the Rajapaksa stadium to host their home series. Interestingly, he has hinted about hosting more matches in the island very shortly.

Irish John Mooney has been retained as the fielding coach of Afghanistan

Currently Afghanistan is focussing on the three one day internationals they’re going to play against Pakistan in Hambantota. However the present turmoil within the country can still put brakes to its future. Meanwhile, John Mooney has been retained as the fielding coach of the national team. The board is also looking for a batting coach to replace HD Ackerman. It is speculated that someone from Sri Lanka has already bagged the contract.