(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Afghanistan Announce Squad for 2025 Asia Cup
Afghanistan has officially named its squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, with star all-rounder Rashid Khan set to captain the side. The tournament will be a defining moment for Afghanistan, who are no longer considered underdogs in Asian cricket.
Strength in Spin
Afghanistan’s squad features one of the most formidable spin units in world cricket. Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi will lead the attack, while 19-year-old mystery spinner AM Ghazanfar has been included, adding further unpredictability. Rising talent Noor Ahmad strengthens the spin arsenal, making Afghanistan a serious threat on spin-friendly pitches.
Squad Changes
The selectors made a few notable adjustments. Hazratullah Zazai, once a key top-order hitter, and batting all-rounder Zubaid Akbari have been left out. Meanwhile, left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote has been moved to the reserves.
Balanced Pace Attack
While spin dominates, Afghanistan’s pace attack remains strong. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq will spearhead the fast-bowling department, supported by experienced all-rounders Gulbadin Naib and Azmatullah Omarzai. This balance ensures the team can adapt to all conditions.
Afghanistan Squad for Asia Cup 2025
Main Squad:
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Rashid Khan (C)
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Rahmanullah Gurbaz
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Ibrahim Zadran
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Darwish Rasooli
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Sediqullah Atal
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Azmatullah Omarzai
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Karim Janat
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Mohammad Nabi
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Gulbadin Naib
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Sharafuddin Ashraf
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Mohammad Ishaq
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Mujeeb Ur Rahman
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AM Ghazanfar
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Noor Ahmad
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Fareed Ahmad
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Naveen-ul-Haq
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Fazalhaq Farooqi
Reserves:
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Wafiullah Tarakhil
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Nangeyalia Kharote
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Abdullah Ahmadzai
Tournament Outlook
The 2025 Asia Cup begins on September 9 in Abu Dhabi. Afghanistan has been placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka. Before the Asia Cup, the team will also feature in a tri-nation series against Pakistan and Bangladesh, offering fans an early glimpse of their form.
With Rashid Khan at the helm and a squad full of match-winners, Afghanistan enters the competition with genuine hopes of lifting their first Asia Cup trophy.
