Ismail Molakkel

Born on 2nd March 2003 in Afghanistan, Ismail Molakkel emerged from the cricketing sands of his homeland, carving a path that would take him to the international stage. From a young age, Ismail showed an uncanny talent with the ball, always eager for any opportunity to hone his skills. Growing up in the cricket-filled streets of his local town, he quickly made right-arm-fast-medium bowling his signature.

Ismail's journey truly began when he joined the U-19 national team, representing Afghanistan in youth cricketing arenas. His early performances were marked by an impressive ability to swing the ball both ways, making him a formidable opponent for young batsmen. This skillset earned him a spot in the senior national team, where he debuted at the tender age of 18. In his debut series, he quickly rattled opposition teams with his disciplined line and length, securing a place as one of Afghanistan’s bowling spearheads.

Throughout his career, Ismail has been instrumental in several of Afghanistan's noteworthy victories. His performances during the 2022 Asia Cup, where Afghanistan reached the semi-finals, were pivotal. Ismail picked up a remarkable 16 wickets, delivering several match-winning spells that showcased his knack for breaking crucial partnerships. One of his most memorable matches was against Pakistan, where his 5 for 24 dismantled a strong batting order, solidifying his reputation as a big-match player.

Rivalries have always spurred Ismail's best performances, particularly against neighbouring teams. His fiery spells against India and Pakistan have defined many high-tension encounters, with his expressive celebrations on the field becoming iconic among fans.

On the technical front, Ismail's bowling is enriched by his ability to deliver late in-swingers coupled with deceptive slower balls. While primarily a bowler, his right-hand batting lower down the order has occasionally pulled Afghanistan through challenging situations, often chipping in with handy runs.

Beyond statistics, Ismail's influence on Afghan cricket stretches beyond the boundary. He has inspired a generation of young cricketers, not only with his on-field exploits but also with his story of perseverance amidst adversity. His camaraderie and leadership within the squad are often lauded, underscoring his role as a pivotal figure in Afghanistan’s cricketing narrative.

With each game, Ismail Molakkel reaffirms his status not only as a cricketer of substance but as a beacon of hope in a nation where cricket is more than just a sport—it's a uniting force.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats