Rashid Khan leaves SA20 2025-26 midway due to THIS massive reason; MICT name West Indies great as replacement
Rashid Khan leaves MICT in SA20 2025-26 at a time when the franchise are in a spot of bother and are on a verge of elimination.
In the ongoing SA20 season, defending champions MI Cape Town find themselves in a muddle. With only two wins out of six matches, they are lurking at the bottom of the table. A big reason for this is their poor batting form, with the likes of Nicholas Pooran, Rassie van der Dussen and Jason Smith unable to score consistently.
Moreover, premier bowler Trent Boult’s poor form and dropping fielding standards have added to their miseries. The 2025 winners no longer have their hopes of qualifying under their hands.
Their preparation for the final two matches against Sunrisers Eastern Cape, have been hit by the departure of current captain Rashid Khan. Afghanistan is slated to play a T20I series against West Indies from January 19, and hence Rashid Khan left the squad, with his last match being MICT’s loss to Pretoria Capitals.
Khan’s absence is a blow, as the leg-spinner is one of the best bowlers across the world, and led his team to the title last season. His national commitments highlight the ongoing challenges of balancing franchise cricket with international duties, especially for players from associate nations like Afghanistan.
Kieron Pollard replaces Rashid Khan for MICT in SA20 2025-26
On a positive note, legendary West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has been drafted into the squad for the remainder of the tournament, stepping in for Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan. Pollard, a familiar face to the franchise having previously played for them, replaces Khan.
Pollard’s only appearance at SA20 came in 2024, when he smashed 187 runs across the season at a strike rate of 188, and also picked four wickets. His inclusion brings a wealth of experience and firepower. Moreover, Pollard is just 101 runs shy of overtaking fellow West Indian Chris Gayle as the all-time leading run-scorer in T20 cricket, a milestone that could be achieved during his stint in Cape Town.
Known for his explosive batting, sharp fielding, and medium-pace bowling, Pollard’s leadership qualities were evident when he captained the side in 2024 after Khan’s injury. Although not confirmed as captain this time, Pollard’s presence is expected to inspire the team, and lead their hopes for a miracle turnaround.
Why is Kieron Pollard joining MI Cape Town now?
Pollard is signed as a replacement for Rashid Khan, who is leaving the squad to fulfill national commitments with Afghanistan. This comes as MI Cape Town, the reigning champions, sit last on the points table and need a turnaround.
Has Pollard played for MI Cape Town before?
Yes, Pollard has previously represented MI Cape Town in the SA20. He is familiar with the franchise and brings experience from various MI teams worldwide, including IPL success.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.