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Rashid Khan to Lead Afghanistan's T20 World Cup Squad Featuring Key Returns

The Afghanistan Cricket Board has announced its 15-member squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, with star spinner Rashid Khan confirmed as captain. The squad features the return of all-rounder Gulbadin Naib and fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq from injury, bolstering the team's experience. In a notable selection change, spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman takes the place of AM Ghazanfar, who has been named among the reserves. Afghanistan, placed in Group D, will begin their campaign on February 8 against New Zealand in Chennai, building on their historic semi-final run in the 2024 edition.

Key Points: Afghanistan T20 World Cup Squad: Rashid Khan Captain

  • Rashid Khan named captain
  • Gulbadin Naib & Naveen-ul-Haq return
  • Mujeeb Ur Rahman replaces AM Ghazanfar
  • Squad also for West Indies series
2 min read

Afghanistan unveils 15-member squad for T20 World Cup; Rashid Khan to lead

Afghanistan names 15-man squad for 2026 T20 World Cup. Rashid Khan leads as Gulbadin Naib and Naveen-ul-Haq return. Full squad details inside.

"Gulbadin Naib is a big-match player, and his return boosts our team. - ACB Chief Selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil"

New Delhi, December 31

The Afghanistan Cricket Board on Wednesday announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with Rashid Khan set to lead the side.

The same squad will also feature in the T20I series against West Indies, starting January 19, 2026. The T20 World Cup begins on February 7 next year.

All-rounder Gulbadin Naib is making a comeback as also seamer Naveen-ul-Haq, who is returning from a shoulder injury, as per the ICC website.

Meanwhile, Fazalhaq Farooqi, who missed the recent series against Bangladesh, will add strength to Afghanistan's pace-bowling resources.

Another notable swap sees Mujeeb Ur Rahman replace AM Ghazanfar in the squad. The latter has been named a reserve for the tournament.

"Gulbadin Naib is a big-match player, and his return boosts our team. We are also pleased to have Naveen Ul Haq back, which enhances the quality of our fast bowling. It was a tough decision to leave AM Ghazanfar out of the main squad, as his place made way for Mujeeb," ACB Chief Selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil said.

Afghanistan reached the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup, the first time they had gone that far in an ICC tournament.

Afghanistan are in Group D of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, and the UAE. The Rashid Khan-led side will start their campaign against New Zealand on February 8 in Chennai.

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

Reserves: AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai and Ziaur Rahman Sharifi.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
The comeback of Gulbadin Naib is a smart move. He brings that all-round experience and grit, especially in pressure games. Tough on Ghazanfar though, must be disappointing for the young player.
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Arjun K
Their group looks tricky. New Zealand and South Africa are strong, but Afghanistan on their day can beat anyone. Their first match against NZ in Chennai will set the tone. The Chepauk pitch might suit their spinners!
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Sarah B
As a cricket fan living in India, I have so much respect for Afghanistan's journey. From playing in lower divisions to being World Cup semi-finalists. It's inspirational. Wishing the whole team the very best.
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Vikram M
The pace bowling looks a bit thin if Naveen-ul-Haq isn't fully fit. Farooqi is good, but they need more firepower. Maybe that's their one weakness compared to other top sides. Still, a very dangerous team.
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Kavya N
Exciting times for Afghan cricket! Their success is good for the sport. Hope the tournament in India gives them great support from the crowds. They play with so much heart. 💙

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