Islamabad, Aug 5, 2025: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has unveiled its 22-member preliminary squad for the Asia Cup 2025 and upcoming Tri-Nation Series, signaling serious intent ahead of these major tournaments. Leading the charge is seasoned spinner Rashid Khan, who returns as captain and will spearhead the team’s campaign both strategically and tactically.
The national team will head to the UAE for a focused two-week training camp. This intensive session aims to boost player fitness, refine core cricketing skills, and develop strong match-day tactics. With conditions in the UAE similar to those expected during the Asia Cup, the camp holds critical importance.
Rashid Khan to Lead Afghanistan’s Spin Arsenal
Widely recognized as one of the top T20 spinners globally, Rashid Khan will be joined by a formidable spin squad including Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Sharafuddin Ashraf, and veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan’s strategy remains clear—bank on spin domination to unsettle opponents.
Balanced Pace Attack for UAE Conditions
The fast-bowling unit features the energetic Fazal Haq Farooqi, experienced Naveen-ul-Haq, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Karim Janat. These bowlers bring a mix of swing and seam, ideally suited for subcontinental pitches.
Strong Batting Line-up with Blend of Youth and Experience
The batting department includes reliable names like Rahmanullah Gurbaz—likely to take the gloves—alongside Ibrahim Zadran and Darwish Rasooli. The selectors have also infused fresh talent, giving opportunities to Sediqullah Atal and Wafiullah Tarakhil, as the team eyes long-term bench strength.
Full Afghanistan Preliminary Squad for Asia Cup 2025:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Fazal Haq Farooqi
- Farid Malik
- Sediqullah Atal
- Gulbadin Naib
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Saleem Safi
- Wafiullah Tarakhil
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Abdul Rahman Ghazanfar
- Abdullah Ahmadzai
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Noor Ahmad Lakanwal
- Bashir Ahmad
- Darwish Rasooli
- Mohammad Ishaq
- Rashid Khan (Captain)
- Mohammad Nabi
- Nangyal Kharoti
- Sharafuddin Ashraf
- Karim Janat
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The final 15-player squad for the Asia Cup and Tri-Series will be decided after the UAE camp concludes later this month. With a blend of seasoned match-winners and rising stars, Afghanistan is gearing up for a promising run in international white-ball cricket under Rashid’s inspiring leadership.
