Israfeel Zazai

Israfeel Zazai was born on the 1st of January, 2000, in Kabul, Afghanistan, and has journeyed from the local street games of his neighbourhood to the more glamorous arenas of international cricket, making his mark as a naturally gifted batsman. From a young age, Israfeel showcased a rare blend of talent and dedication, tirelessly refining his skills on any patch of ground he could find. His passionate pursuit of cricket caught the eye of local coaches, who encouraged him to join a cricket academy and hone his craft.

Israfeel's professional debut came in the national team when he was just 18, after an impressive climb through the junior ranks. His first match was an ODI against Pakistan, and despite the jitters of facing a world-class bowling attack, he stood firm, showcasing his adaptable batting style. Known for his deft touches and quick footwork, Israfeel quickly became an indispensable part of the team. His ability to modify his batting approach according to the situation—grinding out tough spells or accelerating when needed—has been a cornerstone of his success.

His career is peppered with major achievements, including leading Afghanistan to victory in the ACC Premier Cup in 2019, where his remarkable innings of 90 not out in the final remains a highlight. He has also engraved his name in the annals of cricket history with a phenomenal century against India in the 2021 Asia Cup, a knock characterised by both elegance and ferocity. His rivalry with Indian bowler Mohammed Siraj is particularly well-documented, with both players often bringing out the best in each other on the pitch.

Israfeel's versatility extends beyond batting; he's also a handy part-time bowler, using gentle off-spin and cunning variations to snag crucial breakthroughs. While not a frontline bowler, his understanding of the game often induces mistakes from well-set batsmen.

One of Israfeel's memorable cricketing moments was during the Afghanistan Premier League in 2022, where he saved his team with a last-over partnership, re-writing the script when the odds were stacked against them. His calm under pressure and ability to perform in clutch situations have made him a cricketing icon in his homeland.

Through sheer talent and determination, Israfeel Zazai has emerged as a prominent figure in Afghan cricket, inspiring a generation and embodying the spirit of resilience and innovation on the cricket field.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats