Afghanistan Announces Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
New Delhi: Afghanistan has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Rashid Khan will captain the team, with Ibrahim Zadran named as his deputy. Mujeeb Ur Rahman returns to the T20 format, enhancing the team’s lineup.
Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, who will celebrate his 41st birthday on January 1, 2026, is also part of the squad. Additionally, Shahidullah Kamal and Mohammad Ishaq have retained their spots. The return of Gulbadin Naib and Naveen-ul-Haq is expected to bolster Afghanistan’s bowling strength.
The fast bowling unit will also include Abdullah Ahmadzai and Fazalhaq Farooqi. AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai, and Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi have been designated as reserve players.
Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil, the Chief Selector of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), commented on the squad selection: “We had thorough discussions over the past few days and finalized the squad. Gulbadin Naib is a big-match player, and his return enhances our team. We are also pleased to welcome Naveen Ul Haq back, strengthening our fast bowling options.”
He acknowledged the challenging decision to exclude AM Ghazanfar, stating, “His place was taken by Mujeeb. Shahidullah Kamal performed well in recent events, providing us with a valuable left-handed option, which is crucial in major tournaments.”
The same squad is set to face the West Indies in a three-match T20I series in the UAE from January 19 to 22. In the T20 World Cup, Afghanistan is positioned in Group D alongside New Zealand, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada. They will commence their campaign against New Zealand on February 8 in Chennai.
Afghanistan Squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Rashid Khan (Captain), Ibrahim Zadran (Vice-Captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicketkeeper), Mohammad Ishaq (Wicketkeeper), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen Ul Haq, Fazal Haq Farooqi, and Abdullah Ahmadzai.
