Rashid Khan and Azmatullah Omarzai likely to miss MLC 2025

Franchise MI New York’s star all-rounders Rashid Khan and Azmatullah Omarzai are likely to miss the upcoming edition of the Major League Cricket (MLC 2025), starting on June 12 in the United States.

Afghanistan's ace Khan has opted out of MLC 2025 to take a personal break from cricket. The leg-spinner was MI New York’s most effective bowler during the 2023 season, bagging 10 wickets at an economy rate of 6.15. Despite his heroics, the team struggled collectively, finishing fourth with only two wins in seven matches.

Meanwhile, Rashid Khan's recent form in IPL 2025 with Gujarat Titans has been underwhelming, as he managed just nine wickets at an economy of 9.34 and an average of 57.11, making it his worst IPL season. Notably, he conceded 33 sixes, the most by any bowler in a single IPL season.

On the other hand, Omarzai, who was expected to represent MI New York, is also set to miss the tournament. Like Rashid, Omarzai was last seen in action during IPL 2025, where he represented the runners-up Punjab Kings. The reason behind his absence is also believed to be a self-imposed break from the game.

US government's travel ban affects Afghanistan

Furthermore, the recent US government travel ban has affected citizens from 12 countries, including Afghanistan. While the regulation includes exceptions for athletes participating in major international events, its implementation has led to confusion over visa clearances for several Afghan cricketers.

Pooran to captain MI New York after Int'l retirement

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Pooran to captain MI New York after Int'l retirement

However, other Afghan players like Naveen-ul-Haq (MI New York), Noor Ahmad (Texas Super Kings), and Waqar Salamkheil (Seattle Orcas) have successfully joined their respective franchises. Gulbadin Naib and Fazalhaq Farooqi, both associated with Seattle Orcas, are still awaiting visa approvals.

Meanwhile, West Indies wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran has been appointed MI New York’s captain for MLC 2025, taking over the duties from Kieron Pollard. Pooran recently announced his retirement from international cricket, placing his priorities entirely on franchise-based competitions.

Pooran’s impact on MI New York has been impressive. In the inaugural MLC season, he led the team to the title with a solid unbeaten 137 off 55 balls in the final against Seattle Orcas. He was also the leading run-scorer of the tournament, scoring 388 runs.