Afghan Spinner Noor Ahmad Shines in IPL Debut with CSK

In September 2022, Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad made a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The 20-year-old was snapped up by the five-time champions for a whopping Rs 10 crore during the mega auction, and he wasted no time in proving his worth.

Noor Ahmad's first game for CSK was a standout performance, as he claimed a sizzling three-wicket haul and was crowned the Player of the Match in his team's resounding 83-run victory. This was just the beginning of a breakout season for the young Afghan prodigy.

By the end of the 2022 IPL campaign, Noor Ahmad had cemented his place as one of the league's rising stars. He finished the season as the second-highest wicket-taker, with 24 scalps from 14 innings, trailing only India's Prasidh Krishna.

While the personal milestones were impressive, Noor Ahmad's most cherished experience was playing alongside the legendary MS Dhoni. The "Captain Cool" of CSK provided the young spinner with invaluable guidance and support, helping him navigate the high-pressure environment of the IPL.

"Getting Man of the Match in my first game was special, but playing alongside MS Dhoni was the real highlight," Noor Ahmad revealed. "He keeps things very simple for everyone. You don't have to think too much. He just says, 'Assess the situation, do what is needed.' He had complete trust in what I wanted to do. No pressure. We just had to stick to our strengths."

As Afghanistan continues to rise in the international cricket rankings, Noor Ahmad's success in the IPL has only fueled his ambition to achieve greater heights for his country. The ultimate dream for the 20-year-old is to lift a major trophy, be it the World Cup, Champions Trophy, or the upcoming Asia Cup.