Afghanistan’s cricket star Rashid Khan is “ready” for Sunrisers Hyderabad’s opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) against Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday. 

The 14th edition of the cash-rich league kicked off on Friday with a thrilling encounter between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore. 

Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their campaign in the third game of this IPL on Sunday.  

Afghanistan’s spinner Rashid Khan on Saturday shared pictures from Sunrisers’ practice game played as the build-up to their tournament opener.   

“All ready for tomorrow's game,” Rashid tweeted. 

This year, another Afghan cricketer Mujeeb Ur Rahman also joined Sunrisers with Rashid and Mohammad Nabi. Nabi and Mujeeb may have to wait for getting an opportunity in this IPL season.  

But Rashid is in tonight’s squad. 

Mujeeb was bought by Sunrisers in the IPL 2021 auction who played the last two seasons for Kings XI Punjab.  

Rashid and Nabi have been playing for Sunrisers in the IPL since 2017. 

“From the overseas perspective, having Mujeeb there (in the side). He is obviously a very very effective T20 bowler, and he has shown that throughout his franchise career and obviously playing for Afghanistan,” explained Sunrisers’ Director of Cricket, Tom Moody in a video released by team four days ago.  

“I think he gives us greater depth and certainly, he is going to keep everyone on their toes to you know try and keep their spot in the eleven,” he said. 

Sunrisers Hyderabad ended as the third-ranked side in the IPL 2020.   

The 2016 champions would be expecting to go miles in this upcoming season.   

They will open their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 11.