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Bowler
Age: 32 years
In a country celebrated for its world-class spinners, Fareed Malik stands out as a rare left-arm pace option — a skillset that has seen limited use in Afghanistan’s spin-dominated bowling attacks. Since making his ODI debut in 2014, Malik has had to contend with limited opportunities, featuring in just five ODIs over a span of five years.
Afghanistan’s reliance on spin has often meant that pacers, especially those who operate at medium pace, have struggled to break into the playing XI. Despite this, Fareed has shown glimpses of his potential when given the chance.
Malik made both his T20I and ODI debuts against the UAE, but it's against Ireland where he has found the most success. His standout performance came in Noida, where he claimed three key wickets to help Afghanistan to a comfortable win. That spell remains his best in ODIs and a reminder of the depth Afghanistan has in its pace reserves.
In domestic cricket, particularly in the Afghanistan Premier League (APL), Fareed has delivered inspiring performances, often outshining more established names with his ability to swing the ball and bowl tight lines. Yet, with spin being Afghanistan’s traditional strength, breaking into the national side has remained a challenge.
While opportunities at the international level have been few and far between, Fareed Malik’s hunger and skill remain undiminished. In a team packed with spinners, his left-arm pace brings much-needed variety — and should Afghanistan look to diversify their bowling attack in future campaigns, Malik is a name they may well turn to.