Afghanistan have announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup T20, featuring as many as six all-rounders. The team includes three spin-bowling and three pace-bowling all-rounders, with star leg-spinner Rashid Khan leading the side.
On Sunday (24 August) morning, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) unveiled the squad through a video posted on their social media platforms. Alongside the main squad, three additional players have been named as reserves.
Apart from captain Rashid Khan, the other spin-bowling all-rounders in the squad are Mohammad Nabi and Sharafuddin Ashraf. Among the pace-bowling all-rounders are Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, and Gulbadin Naib.
Spin + Pace All-rounders
Spin all-rounders: Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Sharafuddin Ashraf
Pace all-rounders: Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib
Afghanistan have long been known for their strong spin department, which will once again be a major strength in the Asia Cup. The inclusion of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Allah Ghazanfar adds further depth to their spin attack. In addition, the squad features three frontline pacers—Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Fareed Malik.
Strong Spin Attack
Afghanistan’s spin unit looks stronger than ever with Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Allah Ghazanfar joining Rashid. The pace attack features Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Fareed Malik.
Afghanistan will compete in Group B of the Asia Cup, alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka. Their campaign begins with the opening match of the tournament against Hong Kong.
Ahead of the Asia Cup, Afghanistan are also scheduled to play a tri-nation series involving Pakistan and hosts United Arab Emirates.
Afghanistan Squad for Asia Cup 2025
Main Squad: Rashid Khan (captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mohammad Ishaq (wicketkeeper), Allah Ghazanfar, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fareed Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq.
Reserves: Wafiyullah Tarakhil, Nangyal Kharoti, Abdullah Ahmadzai.
