Ahead of the crucial final match of the three-match one-day international series, Afghanistan’s captain expressed optimism about their chances and their desire to make a significant impact in the Cricket World Cup.

“We would take great pride in defeating Sri Lanka on their home turf,” Hashmatullah Shahidi told reporters on Monday, as the series stood at 1-1 ahead of the finale in Hambantota.

Having secured automatic qualification for the upcoming World Cup in India, Afghanistan outperformed more established teams like Sri Lanka and the former world champions, West Indies.

Shahidi emphasized that the conditions in India, the host nation for the World Cup, are favorable to Afghanistan’s spin bowlers. The team boasts three spinners, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi, all featured prominently in the International Cricket Council’s ODI Rankings for bowlers, surpassing any other country in terms of representation.

“Our rankings are steadily improving with each passing day and match,” Shahidi stated. “We firmly believe that we can achieve something extraordinary in this World Cup.”

Additionally, Afghanistan’s bowling attack includes the talent of chinaman bowler Noor Ahmad, even though he does not currently rank within the top 10.

Shahidi expressed confidence not only in the World Cup but also in the upcoming Asia Cup, another major tournament. The Afghan players’ involvement in the Indian Premier League has provided them with valuable experience of playing in India.

While bowling remains a significant strength for Afghanistan, the team also possesses power hitters and technically sound batsmen in their lineup. Opening batsman Ibrahim Zadran has made a remarkable start to his international career, scoring three centuries and two half-centuries in just 10 ODIs.

“He is one of the brightest talents we have,” Shahidi praised. “I always believed he had the potential to excel at the international level.”

Afghanistan is hopeful for the return of leg-spinner Rashid, who missed the first two ODIs due to a back injury. Shahidi described Rashid as their star performer and noted that they have been cautious with his recovery to ensure his readiness for both the Asia Cup and the World Cup. A final decision on his participation in the decisive match will be made after assessing his condition during training.