The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced a 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 with Rashid Khan continuing as captain. The tournament will be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28 with Afghanistan beginning their campaign against Hong Kong on the opening day.
Fast-bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has been selected. He retired from ODIs and last played for Afghanistan in December 2024.
This is Afghanistan’s first T20 assignment of the year. Their last appearance in the format came against Zimbabwe in December 2024. From that squad, Hazratullah Zazai and Zubaid Akbari have been left out. Ibrahim Zadran and Sharafuddin Ashraf are back after missing the Zimbabwe tour.
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Rashid Khan Leads 17-Member Squad, Naveen-ul-Haq Makes Comeback for Asia Cup 2025
The spin department looks strong again. Mystery spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar is back in the squad along with Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who missed the Champions Trophy earlier this year. Their return gives Rashid Khan more options in conditions that usually favour spin.
The batting group is built around Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Zadran. Skipper Rashid will lead the bowling unit, supported by Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mujeeb, and Ghazanfar. The squad also includes all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, who adds balance to the side.
Three standby players have also been named - Wafiullah Tarakhil, Nangeyalia Kharote and Abdullah Ahmadzai.
Notably, Afghanistan are placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong. With only two teams from the group advancing to the Super Four, every match will be crucial. Their first fixture is against Hong Kong on September 9.
Prior to the Asia Cup, Afghanistan will take part in a tri-series with Pakistan and the UAE, starting August 29 in Sharjah. The series is expected to give the team valuable match practice before the continental event begins in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Afghanistan’s Squad for Asia Cup 2025
Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mohammad Ishaq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fareed Ahmad, Naveen Ul Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Reserve players: Wafiullah Tarakhil, Nangeyalia Kharote, Abdullah Ahmadzai
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