Afghanistan's seasoned all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has expressed his intention to retire from the ODI format following the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Nabi made this revelation after Afghanistan secured a memorable ODI series victory against Bangladesh in Sharjah on Monday. In the 2-1 series win, Nabi was honored as the Player of the Series for his outstanding all-round performance across the three matches.

The 39-year-old, who has been a pivotal figure in Afghanistan's cricket journey, is now anticipating his final appearance in the 50-over format. "From the last World Cup, I had mentally retired, but then we qualified for the Champions Trophy, and I thought it would be great to play in that. We'll see, but I won't be playing for much longer. God willing, after the Champions Trophy, I will bid farewell to ODIs," Nabi told the host broadcaster after the third ODI, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

It is understood that Nabi has already communicated his decision to the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and plans to continue playing T20Is. Since his international debut in 2009, Nabi has been an integral part of the Afghanistan team, which has defeated over 30 countries, many of which are still striving for full-member, Test-playing status, a milestone Afghanistan achieved in 2017.

From victories over lesser-known teams like Denmark, Italy, Argentina, and Tanzania to stronger associate nations such as Scotland, UAE, Namibia, and the Netherlands, Afghanistan has made significant strides, also defeating Test-playing teams like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Australia, New Zealand, and the West Indies. Even at 39, Nabi's contributions to the Afghanistan team remain unmatched. In their recent ODI series triumph, he finished as the top run-scorer with 135 runs and also took two wickets.

Overall, Nabi has accumulated 3,600 ODI runs in 167 matches, averaging 27.48 with a strike rate of 86.99, making him the second-highest run-scorer for Afghanistan in the format. His bowling statistics further highlight his value to the team. With his off-spin, Nabi has claimed 172 wickets, the second-highest for Afghanistan, with an average of 32.47.

The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be Afghanistan's first appearance in the event.

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