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'Anxious To Watch IPL Auction': Trott Predicts IPL Future For Azmatullah Omarzai

image-lotolozcAzmatullah Omarzai remained not out on 97* (Twitter)

In the recently concluded match of the ICC World Cup 2023, Afghanistan's campaign ended with a loss to South Africa, marking their exit from the tournament with eight points from nine games.

Jonathan Trott eager for Azmatullah Omarzai's IPL debut

Amidst this outcome, the spotlight shone on the 23-year-old Afghan sensation, Azmatullah Omarzai, whose remarkable all-round brilliance was a silver lining for the team. Omarzai's unbeaten 97 off 107 deliveries against the Proteas was evidence of his burgeoning talent. Accumulating 353 runs, he stood as Afghanistan's second-highest scorer in the tournament.

In the post-match press conference, Afghanistan's head coach, Jonathan Trott was effusive in his praise for Omarzai. Trott highlighted Omarzai's natural talent along with his ambition and commendable work ethic.

“Well, there's plenty of raw talent, but it's the case with a guy like Azmat, very ambitious but also works incredibly hard, good work ethic. And as a coach, when that's already there, you know, that makes the job a lot easier,” said Trott.



Reflecting on his experience coaching Omarzai over the past year, Trott lauded his extraordinary ability to time the ball and the distinctive sound it makes off his bat. Omarzai's talent, in Trott's view, isn't just promising but indicative of a player who could soon become a stalwart for Afghanistan.

The Englishman further expressed keen anticipation for Omarzai's potential selection in the IPL 2024 auction, seeing it as a significant milestone in the young player's career.

“For Azmat, I've obviously seen him for a year and three months, four months, and I've always been amazed at how he can time the ball. We saw the other night, second, third ball, he hit Mitchell Starc over his head, or over mid-off even, for six. Same thing today, over mid-off. And very rarely do you see players who are able to time the ball and the sound the ball makes when it comes off his bat. Very special talent and I think hopefully will only develop and become a fantastic player for Afghanistan. I'm anxious to watch the IPL auction when his name comes up,” added the former cricketer.

Despite Omarzai's exceptional knock, Afghanistan's effort to set a challenging target of 244 runs was not enough. South Africa, buoyed by Rassie van der Dussen's impressive batting, chased the target, securing a five-wicket win.