'Afghanistan almost ready for Tests'

Ecstatic about spin sensation Rashid Khan and all-rounder Mohammad Nabi bagging IPL contracts, the country's chief coach Lalchand Rajput believes the gradually-improving team from the war-torn nation will be ready to play Tests in another two-three years.

"These two guys playing in IPL is not just huge for them but for the entire country," Rajput told PTI.  "They are world-class players who will learn a lot by sharing the dressing room with some of the biggest names in world cricket. Going forward, I think the number will only grow (Afghans in IPL)," the former India opener said.

"Playing Test cricket has to be the goal. I feel there is still another two or three years before the team is fully ready for the five-day format. A lot depends on the ICC as well."

"I keep telling the players that in India, we don't rate someone highly unless he plays Tests. So the players know the value of getting there," said Rajput.