Rashid Khan ruled out of the first two ODIs against Sri Lanka

Afghanistan have been dealt with a severe blow ahead of their three-match series against Sri Lanka as ace spinner Rashid Khan is ruled out of the first two games due to a lower-back injury. 

The 24-year-old was recently part of the Indian Premier League and helped the Gujarat Titans reach the final of the tournament with some scintillating performances. 

While he was not at his best in the summit clash and conceded 44 runs in three overs that eventually led to their downfall, he was expected to join the national side ahead of their first game on June 2 at Hambantota.

🚨 BREAKING 🚨

Low Back Injury rules Rashid Khan out of the first two ODIs against Sri Lanka.

Afghanistan’s Bowling Ace @rashidkhan_19 has sustained a low back injury which forces him out of the first two games against @OfficialSLC.

Get well soon Champ! 🤲 pic.twitter.com/2SrAR06Amt

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) May 31, 2023

According to a release by Afghanistan Cricket Board, the team management confirmed Rashid will be under medical observation and will return for the last game on June 7. 

"The Team Physio's report confirms the injury and states that he will remain under full medical observation and is expected to return for the final ODI on June 7," the release stated. 

While Afghanistan have already qualified for the upcoming World Cup slated later this year in India, Sri Lanka will use this as a build-up for the Qualifiers in Zimbabwe, starting June 18.