In a significant development for the Afghanistan cricket team, a legendary Pakistan cricketer has been appointed as a mentor for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed this news on Wednesday (January 8), stating that Younis Khan will join their men’s team prior to the tournament, which is set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE.
Mentorship role
Younis Khan, renowned for his exceptional batting skills and leadership, brings a wealth of experience to the Afghan side. He has previously served as Afghanistan’s batting coach in 2022 and is well-respected for his contributions to cricket. Throughout his illustrious career, Younis scored over 10,000 runs in Test matches and played a pivotal role in leading Pakistan to their first T20 World Cup victory in 2009. His expertise will be invaluable as Afghanistan prepares for the prestigious tournament.
ACB’s statement
Sayeed Naseem Sadat, spokesperson for the ACB, expressed enthusiasm about Younis’s appointment, highlighting his extensive knowledge of the game and ability to inspire young players.
“ACB has assigned former experienced top order Pakistani player Younis Khan as Mentor for Champions Trophy 2025. He will join the team before the event starts in Pakistan.” Sadat was quoted as saying to Cricbuzz.
“We believe that his guidance will help our team perform at its best during the Champions Trophy,” he added.
Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four semifinalists of Champions Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy is set to feature top cricketing nations competing for glory, and Afghanistan aims to make a significant impact under Younis’s mentorship. As the tournament approaches, fans and analysts are eager to see how this collaboration will enhance Afghanistan’s performance on the international stage.
Afghanistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
- Afghanistan vs South Africa – February 21 at National Stadium, Karachi
- Afghanistan vs England – February 26 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Afghanistan vs Australia – February 28 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore