Afghanistan have earned a reputation as a spin-dominant side since entering Test cricket, with bowlers like Rashid Khan often grabbing the headlines. However, over the years, the country’s pace bowlers have also made significant contributions in the longest format, producing match-defining spells against quality opposition.
From debut heroics to historic performances against established Test nations, Afghanistan’s seamers have gradually carved out their own place in the record books. Their ability to extract movement, maintain discipline, and deliver breakthroughs at crucial moments has helped Afghanistan become a more balanced Test side.
Pacers with 5-wicket hauls in Test cricket for Afghanistan
Afghanistan may be known for producing world-class spinners, but a select group of fast bowlers have also etched their names into the history books with memorable five-wicket hauls. These performances not only showcased their individual brilliance but also demonstrated Afghanistan’s growing strength as a complete Test side.
1. Ziaur Rahman – 7/97 vs Zimbabwe, Harare, 2025
Ziaur Rahman holds the record for the best match figures by an Afghanistan fast bowler in Test cricket. During the Test against Zimbabwe in Harare in 2025, the pacer produced a sensational all-round bowling display to finish with match figures of 7/97.
His standout innings performance included a five-wicket haul of 5/64, where he consistently troubled the Zimbabwe batters with pace, aggression, and movement. Known for his ability to break partnerships and generate wicket-taking opportunities, Ziaur’s spell remains one of the most impactful fast-bowling performances in Afghanistan’s Test history.
2. Mohammad Saleem – 6/140 vs India, Mullanpur, 2026
Mohammad Saleem occupies a special place on this list after producing one of the finest spells by an Afghan pacer in Test cricket. The right-arm seamer claimed 6 wickets for 140 runs against India in the one-off Test at Mullanpur in 2026.
Despite facing a batting lineup featuring KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant, Saleem kept fighting throughout India’s massive first innings. His six-wicket haul was his maiden Test five-for and helped him register the best bowling figures by an Afghanistan pacer against India in the format.
3. Nijat Masood – 5/79 vs Bangladesh, Mirpur, 2023
Nijat Masood announced himself on the international stage with a dream Test debut against Bangladesh in Mirpur in 2023. The left-arm seamer showcased exceptional control and swing to finish with remarkable figures of 5/79.
Masood repeatedly challenged the Bangladesh batters with disciplined lines and subtle movement, earning a memorable five-wicket haul in his very first Test match. The performance immediately established him as one of Afghanistan’s most promising pace-bowling prospects and remains one of the best debut spells by an Afghan fast bowler in the longest format.
