Afghanistan’s cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 with high hopes and aspirations. The tournament, scheduled to commence on September 3 (Sunday), will witness Afghanistan locking horns with Bangladesh in their opening clash in Lahore. The helm of the Afghan squad will be led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, the current ODI skipper of the team.
After a remarkable performance in the previous Asia Cup, although they fell short of reaching the final, Afghanistan is once again setting their sights on outshining their opponents. The recent announcement of Afghanistan’s squad for the Pakistan ODI series has sparked speculations about the potential squad for the Asia Cup 2023. Here’s a glimpse of the anticipated lineup for Afghanistan in the tournament:
Openers – Ibrahim Zadran & Rahmanullah Gurbaz: The opening slots for Afghanistan are likely to be filled by Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Both players have showcased exceptional form, emerging as the leading run-scorers for the team in ODIs this year. Moreover, Gurbaz’s dual role as a wicketkeeper makes him a valuable asset for the team.
Middle Order – Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran: At the heart of Afghanistan’s batting lineup, skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi is expected to take charge. Leading from the front, Shahidi will be accompanied by Rahmat Shah and Najibullah Zadran. Shah’s consistency and Zadran’s dynamic style could provide the necessary stability to the middle order.
Wicketkeeper – Ikram Ali Khil: Apart from Gurbaz, Ikram Ali Khil stands as a potential wicketkeeping option for Afghanistan. This newcomer to the national team has already showcased his skills in a few ODI encounters. Notably, Khil is also part of the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan, further solidifying his chances for the Asia Cup.
All-Rounders – Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammed Nabi: Afghanistan’s all-round capabilities can be bolstered by Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammed Nabi. While Omarzai thrives as a pace all-rounder, Nabi’s prowess extends to spin. Their dual talents in both batting and bowling departments offer versatility to the Afghan lineup.
Spinners – Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman: The Afghan team boasts a potent spin attack with the likes of Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Khan’s leg-spin wizardry, combined with Rahman’s off-spin mastery and Ahmad’s left-arm spin variations, creates a formidable trio of spin bowlers.
Pacers – Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Abdul Rahman: Afghanistan’s pace department includes Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik, and Abdul Rahman. Farooqi has showcased his mettle by leading the wicket-taking charts for Afghanistan in 2023. Fareed Ahmad and Abdul Rahman, although relatively newer to the international scene, bring freshness and energy to the pace attack.
As Afghanistan prepares to take on the Asia Cup challenge, the eyes of cricket enthusiasts are fixed on the blend of experience and emerging talents that will represent the nation. With Hashmatullah Shahidi at the helm, Afghanistan aims to leave an indelible mark on the tournament and make their presence felt on the cricketing stage.