The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has unveiled a 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against India, scheduled to take place from September 13 to 17 at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi. The series marks a historic moment for Afghan cricket, as it will be the first time Afghanistan hosts India on home soil a significant milestone that underscores the nation’s rapid rise in the international cricketing landscape.
Ibrahim Zadran to Lead in First Full-Time Captaincy Stint
Ibrahim Zadran has been appointed as captain for the series, taking on the role as Afghanistan’s full-time T20I skipper for the first time. The young opener, known for his composure and elegant stroke play, will be tasked with leading a side that boasts a potent mix of explosive youth and seasoned campaigners. His leadership will be under immediate scrutiny as Afghanistan faces one of the strongest T20I sides in the world.
Key Returns Bolster Pace and All-Round Options
The biggest boost to the squad comes in the form of fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, who returns to international action after recovering from a stress fracture in his right shoulder. The injury had sidelined him for Afghanistan’s T20I series against the West Indies and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, both of which were major setbacks for the pace unit. His ability to bowl with pace, precision, and effective variations at the death will be crucial against India’s powerful batting lineup.
Naveen’s return strengthens an already formidable pace attack that includes Fazal Haq Farooqi, the left-arm swing bowler who has been a consistent wicket-taker in powerplays, Abdullah Ahmadzai, a promising right-arm quick, and the versatile all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai, whose medium-pace offerings and hard-hitting lower-order batting add critical balance.
Gulbadin Naib Recalled; Uncapped Wicketkeeper Earns Maiden Call-Up
Experienced all-rounder Gulbadin Naib has also been recalled to the national setup. His return is expected to provide valuable depth in both departments his aggressive middle-order batting and handy seam bowling make him a vital asset, especially in high-pressure situations where flexibility is key.
In a move that signals Afghanistan’s focus on future talent, uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Noor Rahman has received his maiden call-up. Rahman has impressed selectors with consistent performances in domestic cricket and the Shpageeza Cricket League, Afghanistan’s premier T20 competition. He has also been part of the country’s A-team pathway, and his selection rewards his development and potential as a dependable gloveman and compact batter.
Spin Department Packed with Experience and Flair
As expected, Afghanistan’s spin attack remains its greatest strength, led by the world-renowned Rashid Khan, whose leg-spin and sharp googlies continue to trouble batters globally. He is supported by Noor Ahmad, the young left-arm wrist-spinner known for his big turn, Nangyal Kharoti, a left-arm orthodox spinner with a growing reputation, and the experienced Mujeeb Ur Rahman, whose off-spin and carrom ball add variety. Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, a stalwart of Afghan cricket, further bolsters the spin department while also providing valuable lower-order hitting and on-field leadership.
ACB Chief Optimistic Ahead of Landmark Series
ACB Chief Executive Officer Naseeb Khan expressed confidence in the squad’s composition, emphasizing the board’s commitment to fielding a well-rounded and competitive side.
“The Afghanistan Cricket Board has always made every effort to select a well-balanced and fully prepared squad for all relevant competitions. We have followed the same approach for the upcoming series against India, and I hope the Afghanistan team will deliver an outstanding performance in these matches,” Khan said.
He also highlighted the historic nature of the occasion, noting that hosting India for the first time is a testament to Afghanistan’s growing stature in world cricket.
“It is a great pride that Afghanistan is hosting a major cricketing nation for the first time. This reflects the progress Afghan cricket has made toward achieving its major objectives and shows that we are steadily advancing toward the strategic goals identified by the organization,” he added.
Preparation and Travel Plans
The Afghan contingent is expected to depart for India shortly to undergo training camps and practice matches in New Delhi, allowing players to acclimatize to the conditions ahead of the series opener. With a balanced squad featuring explosive batting, varied spin, and a rejuvenated pace attack, Afghanistan will be aiming to make a strong statement against India and continue their upward trajectory in the T20I format.
Afghanistan Squad for T20I Series Against India:
Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Noor Rahman (WK), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Naveen-ul-Haq.
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