Mediaboss Marketing

He's only been in the job for three weeks, but Afghanistan coach Andy Moles has declared guiding the country to the Test arena is his long-term focus.

Afghanistan secured its second tight win in as many games over ACT Comets on Sunday at Manuka Oval, passing the hosts' 9-232 with four balls to spare to secure a five-wicket win.

The war-torn country will play in its first World Cup in February, its opening clash being against Bangladesh in Canberra.

Bangladesh is the closest team above them in the Test rankings, and Moles says the match is an opportunity to press its claims to play on the big stage.

Advertisement

"If we want to play Test cricket, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe are the two sides who are just above us in the rankings," Moles said.

"Bangladesh will want to show everyone they're still above us in ability but, if we can beat them regularly, we'd be pushing to the ICC [International Cricket Council] to play at a higher level.

"Twelve years ago there was no cricket in Afghanistan at all, so to go from nothing to the World Cup is a remarkable story.

"Now it's about making sure we've got the depth in the country to push on."

Afghanistan looked set to cruise to victory on Sunday, but lost momentum mid-innings when opening batsman Usman Ghani (61 not out) retired hurt with cramps.

More here:
Afghanistan pips ACT Comets in World Cup warm-up