Afghanistan have announced their squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against India, with star leg-spinner Rashid Khan set to lead the side in the high-profile assignment. The Afghanistan Cricket Board named a strong group for the series, retaining several experienced players alongside younger names as the team prepares to take on India in Indian conditions. Rashid will once again be central to Afghanistan's plans, both as captain and their leading spin weapon. The visitors will also rely heavily on their established core as they look to challenge an Indian side that has traditionally been difficult to beat at home.
The series provides Afghanistan with another opportunity to test themselves against one of international cricket's strongest teams and assess their combinations ahead of future T20 assignments.
Experienced core retained
Afghanistan's squad includes Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal and Azmatullah Omarzai, giving the side several options at the top and through the middle order. Mohammad Nabi brings considerable experience and all-round ability, while Gulbadin Naib and Omarzai provide additional flexibility with both bat and ball.
The spin department remains one of Afghanistan's principal strengths. Apart from Rashid, the squad features Noor Ahmad and Nangeyalia Kharote, giving the visitors different options on surfaces that could offer assistance to slow bowlers. The pace attack includes Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq and other seam options as Afghanistan seek a balanced bowling combination for Indian conditions.
India challenge awaits
Afghanistan have made considerable progress in white-ball cricket over the past decade, with their performances against leading international teams strengthening their reputation as dangerous opponents, particularly in the T20 format.
Their spin-heavy attack and aggressive batting have made them increasingly competitive, while several members of the squad have extensive experience of playing in franchise competitions around the world. The series against India will offer Afghanistan an important opportunity to fine-tune their T20 plans while giving players exposure against a powerful batting line-up.
Afghanistan squad: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Noor Ahmad, Nangeyalia Kharote, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq and others.