In a significant stride towards cricketing excellence, Afghanistan has unveiled a formidable 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. Under the leadership of Hashmatullah Shahidi, this team showcases a captivating blend of seasoned expertise and youthful prowess. The Afghan Cricket Board’s selection committee has taken a strategic step by reintroducing the seasoned all-rounder Karim Janat. However, young cricketer Azmatullah Omarzai’s journey has been momentarily halted due to a recent injury sustained during the Pakistan ODIs.
The freshly announced squad marks the eagerly awaited return of experienced batsmen Rahmat Shah and Najibullah Zadran, both of whom were sidelined during the Pakistan ODIs owing to injuries. The batting lineup promises excitement as Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who recently showcased an impressive performance against Pakistan, will partner with Ibrahim Zadran as the opening pair. The middle order will boast the formidable presence of Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, and Mohammad Nabi, complementing the leadership prowess of skipper Shahidi.
Among the reserves, Ikram Ali Khil has secured his place, while the top-order batsman Riaz Hasan, who exhibited his talents in the Pakistan series, retains his spot in the squad.
Shifting the focus to Afghanistan’s bowling prowess, the team flaunts an overpowering spin department comprising the likes of Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi. On the pace front, Fazalhaq Farooqi will lead the Afghan pace attack, bolstered by the presence of Abdul Rahman.
Afghanistan’s Squad for Asia Cup 2023:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Rahmat Shah
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi
- Riaz Hasan
- Ikram Ali Khil
- Gulbadin Naib
- Karim Janat
- Abdul Rahman
- Rashid Khan
- Sharafuddin Ashraf
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Suliman Safi
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Noor Ahmad
With this stellar lineup, Afghanistan aims to make a significant impact in the Asia Cup 2023, capitalizing on the combined strengths of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. The cricketing world eagerly awaits the clashes that will unfold in this prestigious tournament, and Afghanistan’s squad promises to be a force to be reckoned with.