Afghanistan Name Strong Squad for Mens T20 World Cup 2026

Afghanistan have continued their remarkable rise in international cricket by unveiling a strong and balanced squad for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. After reaching the semi-finals in the previous edition, expectations are high as the team prepares to compete on subcontinental pitches in India and Sri Lanka, conditions that suit their strengths in spin and adaptable batting.

The announcement, made on December 31, 2025, reflects a clear strategy by the Afghanistan Cricket Board to combine proven match-winners with emerging talent. Led by the experienced Rashid Khan, the squad also serves as preparation for the upcoming T20I series against West Indies, beginning January 19, giving the team crucial match practice ahead of the global tournament.

With renewed confidence, returning players, and a core group that has grown together over several years, Afghanistan enter the tournament aiming not just to compete, but to challenge traditional powerhouses and build on their historic 2024 campaign.

Afghanistan Squad Announcement for T20 World Cup 2026

The Afghanistan Cricket Board named a 15-member squad that showcases depth across all departments. Rashid Khan will captain the side, bringing leadership and tactical awareness developed through years of franchise and international cricket. The squad includes explosive batters, versatile all-rounders, express pace options, and a formidable spin attack.

Key names in the lineup include Rahmanullah Gurbaz at the top of the order, the dependable Ibrahim Zadran, experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, and rising talents such as Noor Ahmad and Darwish Rasooli. The inclusion of players who have performed consistently in pressure situations underlines the team management’s trust in continuity.

The reserves list also reflects careful planning, ensuring like-for-like replacements are available if required during the long tournament. This balance between the main squad and reserves highlights Afghanistan’s growing depth in T20 cricket.

Full Afghanistan Squad and Reserves

The selected squad for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 demonstrates a blend of experience and youth, offering flexibility across various match scenarios.

• Rashid Khan (Captain)
• Rahmanullah Gurbaz
• Ibrahim Zadran
• Mohammad Nabi
• Gulbadin Naib
• Azmatullah Omarzai
• Shahidullah Kamal
• Sediqullah Atal
• Darwish Rasooli
• Abdullah Ahmadzai
• Fazalhaq Farooqi
• Naveen Ul Haq
• Mujeeb Ur Rahman
• Noor Ahmad
• Mohammad Ishaq

Reserves: AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi

The presence of quality reserves ensures Afghanistan remain well-prepared for injuries, form changes, or tactical adjustments during the competition.

Key Comebacks Strengthen the Squad

One of the most significant talking points from the squad announcement is the return of Gulbadin Naib and Naveen Ul Haq. Gulbadin, known for his ability to deliver in high-pressure matches, adds experience and balance to the middle order while offering medium-pace bowling options.

Naveen Ul Haq’s comeback from a shoulder injury significantly boosts Afghanistan’s fast-bowling resources. His variations at the death and ability to exploit bounce make him a valuable asset, especially on Indian pitches that can assist seamers under lights.

Additionally, Fazalhaq Farooqi’s inclusion after missing recent international fixtures strengthens the pace attack further, giving Afghanistan multiple bowling options to counter different opponents.

Spin Arsenal Remains Afghanistan’s Biggest Weapon

Afghanistan’s reputation as a spin powerhouse remains intact, with Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad forming a world-class trio. These bowlers bring contrasting styles, making it difficult for opposition batters to settle during the middle overs.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s return to the main squad, replacing AM Ghazanfar, adds experience and control. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and restrict scoring provides strategic flexibility, especially against teams that rely on aggressive starts.

The spin-heavy attack is expected to thrive on the slow and turning pitches of India and Sri Lanka, giving Afghanistan a potential edge over teams less accustomed to such conditions.

Leadership and Vision Under Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan’s leadership will be central to Afghanistan’s ambitions in the tournament. As one of the most respected T20 players globally, Rashid brings calmness, strategic clarity, and the ability to inspire teammates during challenging moments.

His experience across global T20 leagues has sharpened his understanding of match situations, field placements, and bowling rotations. This tactical awareness will be crucial against strong opponents in the group stage.

Under Rashid’s captaincy, Afghanistan aim to play fearless cricket while maintaining discipline, an approach that paid dividends in the previous World Cup.

Group D Challenge and Fixtures

Afghanistan have been placed in Group D alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, and the UAE. The group presents a mix of established cricketing nations and emerging teams, requiring consistent performances to secure qualification.

The campaign begins with a high-profile clash against New Zealand on February 8 in Chennai, a fixture that will test Afghanistan’s readiness early in the tournament. Matches against South Africa and UAE will further challenge their adaptability and depth.

The final group match against Canada offers an opportunity to secure crucial points, but Afghanistan will be wary of underestimating any opponent in a tightly contested group.

Afghanistan Group Stage Fixtures

The confirmed fixtures for Afghanistan in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 are as follows:

• vs New Zealand – February 8, Chennai
• vs South Africa – February 11, Ahmedabad
• vs UAE – February 16, Delhi
• vs Canada – February 19, Chennai

These matches across multiple venues will test the team’s adaptability to different pitch conditions and crowd atmospheres.

Expectations After a Historic 2024 Run

Afghanistan’s semi-final finish in the 2024 edition marked a turning point in their cricketing journey. It showcased their ability to compete with elite teams and perform under pressure on the world stage.

The 2026 squad reflects lessons learned from that campaign, focusing on squad depth, mental resilience, and tactical flexibility. Players have matured, gained international exposure, and developed confidence through consistent performances.

As the tournament approaches, Afghanistan are no longer seen as underdogs but as serious contenders capable of upsetting top-ranked teams and potentially going even further than before.

Road Ahead for Afghanistan Cricket

The announcement of this squad is not just about one tournament, but a reflection of Afghanistan cricket’s long-term vision. Continued investment in youth development, exposure to international leagues, and strong leadership have transformed the team into a competitive force.

Success in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 could further elevate Afghanistan’s standing in world cricket and inspire a new generation of players back home. The blend of experience and youth suggests a team built not just for today, but for sustained success.

As fans eagerly await the start of the tournament, all eyes will be on Rashid Khan and his men to see if they can once again defy expectations and write another memorable chapter in Afghanistan cricket history.

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