NEW DELHI: Afghanistan shed their ‘minnows’ label in the ICC World ODI Cup thanks largely to the influence of mentor Ajay Jadeja. The former Indian cricketer played a pivotal role in shaping Afghanistan’s performance throughout the World Cup.
Previously regarded as underdogs in the tournament with only one win in two prior campaigns, Afghanistan concluded the recent event in India with an impressive four victories.Their noteworthy performance secured a sixth-place finish, ensuring their spot in the Champions Trophy.
They secured the 6th position on the points table after registering memorable victories against England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
In fact, Jonathan Trott, the current head coach of the Afghanistan cricket team, and team’s capatan Hashmatullah Shahidi also heaped praise on the veteran cricketer for his big role in Afghanistan’s World Cup campaign.
In a conversation with Sports Tak, Jadeja, who payed 15 Tests ad 196 ODIs for India, was asked about taking up a coaching role in Pakistan cricket team.
“I am ready,” said Jadeja.
“I shared my learnings with Afghans and I believe Pakistan were once like Afghanistan. You could say anything you wanted to in the face of your teammate,” Jadeja added.

Afghanistan will tour India for a three-match T20I series in January. The series will start on January 11 and will go on till January 17.
The first of the three-match T20I series is scheduled for January 11 in Mohali, followed by the second and third matches on January 14 and 17 in Indore and Bengaluru, respectively.