Mohammad Saleem Safi’s journey from quitting cricket at 16 to becoming a formidable fast bowler for Afghanistan is a testament to his resilience and determination. His recent six-wicket haul against India underscores his rapid ascent in international cricket.
**Early Life and Initial Setback**
Born in Baghlan province, Afghanistan, Mohammad Saleem Safi exhibited a passion for cricket from a young age. However, at 16, financial hardships led him to step away from the sport, casting uncertainty over his cricketing future. In a 2020 interview, Safi candidly shared, “I started playing cricket about a year ago (2019), but due to severe economic and financial difficulties, I am struggling to move forward. However, I am still putting a lot of effort into my cricket. Cricket is very special to me.” ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Reigniting the Passion**
Despite the challenges, Safi’s love for cricket remained unwavering. He returned to the game with renewed vigor, focusing on honing his fast bowling skills. His dedication paid off when he caught the attention of former Pakistan cricketer Rana Naved-ul-Hasan. In 2023, Naved-ul-Hasan, then serving as Afghanistan’s bowling coach, observed Safi’s impressive pace at the high-performance center in Kabul. He recalled, “He was touching 145 kph. It excited me. I was in awe because you don’t often find genuine fast bowlers in Afghanistan.” ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Mentorship and Development**
Recognizing Safi’s potential, Naved-ul-Hasan took him under his wing, providing guidance to refine his technique and harness his raw talent. Their collaboration focused on improving Safi’s consistency and control, essential attributes for a fast bowler. Naved-ul-Hasan noted, “He bowled hard lengths and it was good to see him operating in the high 130s.” ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
**International Debut and Breakthrough**
Safi’s hard work culminated in his selection for Afghanistan’s national team. In June 2026, during a one-off Test match against India in Mullanpur, he delivered a standout performance. On the opening day, Safi claimed the wickets of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan, both key contributors to India’s batting lineup. His ability to extract bounce and maintain pressure was evident as he bowled at speeds reaching 142 kph. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
The following day, Safi’s prowess was on full display. He dismissed Shubman Gill, India’s centurion, with a delivery that induced a thick outside edge, caught behind by Afsar Zazai. Shortly after, he bowled Dhruv Jurel with a delivery that nipped back just enough to hit the top of off stump. Safi’s relentless pursuit of wickets continued as he claimed his maiden five-wicket haul by dismissing debutant Manav Suthar. He concluded the innings with figures of 6 for 140, marking a significant milestone in his career. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Mentor’s Perspective**
Reflecting on Safi’s performance, Naved-ul-Hasan expressed immense pride. He stated, “It was so satisfying. An Afghanistan pacer clocking 140 kph and taking six wickets against India. A perfect day for me.” ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Afghanistan’s Fast-Bowling Renaissance**
Safi’s success is part of a broader shift in Afghanistan’s cricketing landscape. Historically known for producing mystery spinners, the nation is now emphasizing the development of fast bowlers. Naved-ul-Hasan highlighted this transformation, noting, “The world has only seen mystery spinners coming out of Afghanistan, but now there is a massive shift.” ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has been proactive in this initiative, organizing annual fast-bowling talent hunts and establishing a robust domestic structure. Between February and November, Afghanistan hosts seven domestic tournaments across all three formats, providing a platform for emerging fast bowlers like Safi to showcase their skills. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/the-rise-of-mohammad-saleem-safi-quit-cricket-at-16-impressed-pakistans-rana-naved-ul-hasan-with-pace-now-bags-6/140-vs-india/articleshow/131564228.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Looking Ahead**
Safi’s journey from a young boy facing financial hardships to a key player in Afghanistan’s national team is inspiring. His story underscores the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and the support of a structured cricketing system. As Afghanistan continues to invest in its fast-bowling infrastructure, players like Safi are poised to lead the charge, bringing the nation to new heights in international cricket.
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