The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced its 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, with charismatic all-rounder Rashid Khan once again named captain.
The announcement has generated a buzz among fans as Afghanistan looks to make a strong statement in the tournament, which will be played in the UAE from September 9 to 28.
This year’s squad reflects a balanced mix of experience and exciting young talent, with the selectors opting for depth in both batting and bowling departments.
Rashid Khan – The Leader
Rashid Khan’s leadership has been a cornerstone of Afghan cricket for several years. Known for his game-changing spin bowling, sharp cricketing mind, and aggressive lower-order batting, Rashid’s presence as captain brings stability to the squad.
Under his captaincy, Afghanistan will not only rely on spin but also hope to surprise opponents with a revamped pace attack.
Naveen-ul-Haq Returns to Strengthen Pace Attack
One of the biggest highlights of the squad announcement is the return of fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq. Known for his variations and accuracy at the death, Naveen’s comeback adds much-needed firepower to Afghanistan’s seam department. He will join hands with Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai, giving Rashid Khan multiple fast-bowling options.
This trio ensures that Afghanistan is not solely dependent on spin, making them a more well-rounded T20 side.
Spin – Afghanistan’s Biggest Strength
Spin has always been Afghanistan’s traditional strength, and the selectors have doubled down on it. Alongside Rashid Khan, the squad features:
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman – A proven match-winner with the new ball.
- Allah Ghazanfar – The young mystery spinner touted as one of Afghanistan’s rising stars.
- Mohammad Nabi – The veteran all-rounder whose experience and off-spin remain invaluable.
This spin-heavy lineup could be Afghanistan’s trump card, especially on UAE pitches that often assist slower bowlers.
Batting Core: Gurbaz, Zadran, Nabi
The batting department will be spearheaded by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, one of the most explosive wicketkeeper-batters in world cricket. He will likely open the innings with Ibrahim Zadran, who brings stability at the top.
The middle order has the experienced Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, and Hashmatullah Shahidi, ensuring Afghanistan’s batting has both firepower and reliability.
Afghanistan Squad for Asia Cup 2025
Here’s a complete look at the 17-member Afghanistan squad for the tournament:
| No. | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rashid Khan (C) | All-rounder (Spin) |
| 2 | Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| 3 | Ibrahim Zadran | Batter |
| 4 | Hashmatullah Shahidi | Batter |
| 5 | Najibullah Zadran | Batter |
| 6 | Mohammad Nabi | All-rounder (Spin) |
| 7 | Gulbadin Naib | All-rounder (Pace) |
| 8 | Azmatullah Omarzai | All-rounder (Pace) |
| 9 | Karim Janat | All-rounder |
| 10 | Naveen-ul-Haq | Fast Bowler |
| 11 | Fazalhaq Farooqi | Fast Bowler |
| 12 | Noor Ahmad | Spin Bowler |
| 13 | Mujeeb Ur Rahman | Spin Bowler |
| 14 | Allah Ghazanfar | Spin Bowler |
| 15 | Sharafuddin Ashraf | Spin All-rounder |
| 16 | Usman Ghani | Batter |
| 17 | Qais Ahmad | Spin Bowler |
Afghanistan’s Group
Afghanistan has been drawn into Group B, alongside Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong. While Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will be tough competitors, Afghanistan’s spin depth and improving batting unit could help them advance to the knockout stages.
The team will also look to build on its World Cup 2024 heroics, where they defeated top-tier teams and showed they can compete at the highest level.
In Shorts:
Afghanistan’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 underlines their growth as a cricketing nation. With Rashid Khan’s leadership, Naveen-ul-Haq’s return, and the balance of experience and youth, the team is well-prepared to challenge the region’s powerhouses.
Fans can expect explosive batting, crafty spin, and fearless cricket from Afghanistan—a side that has quickly become one of the most exciting teams to watch in world cricket.
