The Afghanistan Cricket Board declared that Mohammad Shahzad was not fit to play the remainder of the World Cup. Shahzad had said: “I still don't know why I was ruled unfit when I was fit enough to play. Some people in the board (ACB) have conspired against me. Only manager, doctor and the captain knew that I was going to be replaced. Even the coach (Phil Simmons) found out much later. It was heart-breaking.”

He added: “I had finished my training (ahead of the New Zealand game) and only after I checked my phone, I found out that I have been ruled out of the World Cup due to a knee injury. None of the players in the team bus knew about it and just like me, they were in shock (at the news).” But his statements were denied by ACB CEO Asadullah Khan who said: “What he is saying is completely wrong. A proper medical report to the ICC was submitted and then only his replacement was announced. The team could not have fielded an unfit player. I understand he is upset at not being part of World Cup anymore but the team could not have compromised on his fitness.”

Now an emotional Shahzad has supposedly reported that “If they don’t want me to play, I will quit cricket. I don’t see myself playing anymore. If they (ACB) have a problem, they should let me know. I went to a doctor in London and he ... said that I could play after resting for two-three days. I was removed from the 2015 World Cup and now this one as well. I am going to consult with friends and family, my heart isn’t in cricket anymore.”

The highest run-scorer for Afghanistan in ODIs will be replaced by 18-year-old Ikram Ali Khil.

"I have no problem or injury & fully fit but @ACBofficials pulled me out of the squad by force without any consultation"Says @MShahzad077 who is ruled out of @cricketworldcup due to knee injury in his recent voice clip to a media in #Kabl as he is set to return home tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/tqagZST9c2

— M.ibrahim Momand (@IbrahimReporter) June 8, 2019