The Afghan chances

Well, the fairytale team are in the World 20/20, and boy will they enjoy themselves. Their rise over the last few years has been nothing short of monumental, and finally they are given their opportunity on the International stage. So how will they fare in a group alongside the powerhouses South Africa and India? Erm, probably not very well. But the experience they'll gain will be out of this world.

Afghanistan possess two of the most talented associate players in batsman Mohammad Shahzad and quick Hamid Hassan. Both will be key to Afghanistan's performances, as will the talented allrounder Nabi. Nabi constantly picks up wickets with his offspin, and is more than capable of putting bat to ball. Of course, alot of the focus will be on Hamid, who in a way represents the entire team. A tearaway who goes wild at the first sign of success, this guy puts everything into every ball he bowls, and could unsettle a few of the Saffers and Indians. It will be an amazing experience for young captain Nowroz Mangal, who will also be required to weigh in with runs in the middle order.

For me though, the key man will be Shahzad. Yes it will be a huge responsibility for such a young man (he is only 18), but he has displayed class in all forms of the game, most notably an amazing 214* to lead Afghanistan in a successful chase of 494 against Canada in the Intercontinental Cup. One thing you can expect from Afghanistan will be a no fear approach, and if Karim Sadiq's comment on Dale Steyn (when asked about facing South Africa, Sadiq replied " Dale Steyn will be no problem") are to be taken as a measure of confidence, then the Afghans will not roll over wondering.