Afghanistan Names Full-Strength Squad for Asia Cup 2025

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced a formidable 17-member squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, marking the return of key spinners Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman and Allah Ghazanfar. The duo, who missed the Champions Trophy earlier this year, will bolster the team's spin attack, led by skipper Rashid Khan and the seasoned all-rounder Mohammad Nabi.

Key Inclusions and Changes

Ibrahim Zadran, who recently made a comeback, has secured a spot in the squad, replacing Hazratullah Zazai. The batting lineup features in-form players like Darwish Rasooli and Sediqullah Atal, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Mohammad Ishaq will serve as the designated wicket-keeper batters.

The all-round department is well-covered with Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, and Gulbadin Naib. The pace attack will be spearheaded by Fazalhaq Farooqi, with Naveen-ul-Haq and Farid Ahmad Malik providing support. Notably, this tournament could mark Naveen-ul-Haq's return to the playing XI after his previous decision to step away from ODIs.

Reserves and Preparations

The squad also includes three travelling reserves: Wafiullah Tarakhail, Nangyal Kharote, and Abdullah Ahmadzai. Ahead of the Asia Cup, a significant portion of the squad will participate in a tri-series involving the UAE and Pakistan.

Asia Cup Fixtures

Afghanistan is scheduled to kick off their Asia Cup campaign against Hong Kong in the tournament opener on September 9, 2025.

Full Squad:

• 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 squad’s composition reflects Afghanistan's intent to field a balanced and competitive team for the Asia Cup, with a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents.