Stay In India: Rashid Khan reveals getting citizenship offer from senior BCCI official in IPL 2023

Afghanistan star Rashid Khan reveals he was offered citizenship by India and Australia but refused, saying he would only play for his country despite opportunities elsewhere.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht
Updated : 20 April 2026, 8:04 PM IST
google-preferred

New Delhi: Rashid Khan has revealed that he received offers of citizenship from both India and Australia but chose to remain loyal to Afghanistan, according to excerpts from his upcoming book.

The star leg-spinner, regarded as one of the finest performers in T20 cricket over the past decade, shared that he was informally approached during the 2023 season of the Indian Premier League.

Luck Was On My Side: Rinku Singh stars against RR as KKR record its first win in IPL 2026

Approach by Senior Official During IPL 2023

In his book, Rashid recounts an interaction with a senior official from the Board of Control for Cricket in India, who allegedly suggested that he consider relocating to India.

According to Rashid, the official highlighted the challenges in Afghanistan and proposed that he could live in India, receive official documents and continue playing cricket there.

The Afghan cricketer said he was surprised by the suggestion but responded politely, reiterating his commitment to representing his home country.

Clear Stand on National Loyalty

Rashid stated that he also received a similar offer from Australia, though he did not elaborate on the details. However, his stance remained unchanged.

“If I don’t play for my country, I won’t play for any other country either,” he wrote, making his position clear on national allegiance. His response reflects a strong sense of identity and loyalty, despite the professional advantages such a move could have offered.

Kolkata Knight Riders’ flop show in IPL 2026 goes viral on social media through brutal memes

Continued Impact in IPL

Currently representing the Gujarat Titans, Rashid has regained form after a slow start to the ongoing season. He has emerged as one of the most economical bowlers for his team, conceding minimal runs while contributing with key wickets.

His performances have played a role in the team’s recent winning momentum, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable match-winner in T20 cricket.

Rashid’s revelations offer insight into the pressures and choices faced by international athletes, particularly those from regions facing political and social challenges.

Location :  New Delhi

Published :  20 April 2026, 8:04 PM IST

Advertisement