Afghanistan Unveils Strong Squad for Asia Cup 2025, Mujeeb and Ghazanfar Return

Afghanistan has announced a formidable 17-member squad for the upcoming 2025 Asia Cup, signaling their intent to compete strongly in the tournament. The squad sees the return of key spin bowlers Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman and Allah Ghazanfar, who missed the Champions Trophy earlier this year. Their inclusion is expected to significantly bolster Afghanistan's spin attack, which will be spearheaded by captain Rashid Khan and the experienced Mohammad Nabi.

Ibrahim Zadran, who recently made a comeback, has also retained his place in the squad, with Hazratullah Zazai being the notable omission. The batting lineup will rely on the solid middle order provided by Darwish Rasooli and Sediqullah Atal. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Mohammad Ishaq are the designated wicket-keeper batsmen.

The all-round capabilities of the team are further strengthened by the inclusion of Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, and Gulbadin Naib. In the pace department, Fazalhaq Farooqi will lead the charge, supported by Naveen-ul-Haq and Farid Ahmad Malik. This tournament marks a potential return to the T20I format for Naveen-ul-Haq in 2025, mirroring Mujeeb and Ghazanfar's return to the national side.

Afghanistan will also participate in a tri-series against UAE and Pakistan leading up to the Asia Cup, which will feature a significant portion of the Asia Cup squad. Afghanistan is set to commence their Asia Cup campaign against Hong Kong in the tournament opener on September 9.

The full squad includes: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mohammad Ishaq, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb ur Rahman, AM Ghazanfar, Farid Ahmad Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen ul Haq. The travelling reserves are Wafiullah Tarakhail, Nangyal Kharote, and Abdullah Ahmadzai.