Afghanistan, one of the most exciting T20 sides in the world, has announced its 22-member preliminary squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 and the T20I tri-nation series against Pakistan and UAE. Known for their fearless cricket and formidable spin attack, the Afghan team is expected to be a serious contender in the Asia Cup.
Official Squad Status
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the preliminary squad on August 1, 2025. This squad will undergo a two-week training and preparation camp in the UAE before being trimmed down to the final 15 for the Asia Cup.
Afghanistan Preliminary Squad for Asia Cup 2025
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Rashid Khan (C) | Bowling All-Rounder |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Ibrahim Zadran | Top-order Batter |
| Mohammad Nabi | All-Rounder |
| Noor Ahmad | Left-arm Spinner |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi | Left-arm Fast Bowler |
| Naveen-ul-Haq | Fast Bowler |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Pace All-Rounder |
| Gulbadin Naib | All-Rounder |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | Off-Spinner |
| Karim Janat | All-Rounder |
| Darwish Rasooli | Middle-order Batter |
| Mohammad Ishaq | Batter |
| Sharafuddin Ashraf | Spin All-Rounder |
| Nangyal Kharoti | Bowler |
| Sediqullah Atal | Batter |
| Wafiullah Tarakhil | Batter |
| AM Ghazanfar | Bowler |
| Farid Malik | Fast Bowler |
| Saleem Safi | Bowler |
| Abdullah Ahmadzai | Bowler |
| Bashir Ahmad | Bowler |
Note: Final 15-man squad to be announced after training camp ends.
T20I Tri-Series Before Asia Cup 2025
As a warm-up for the Asia Cup, Afghanistan will compete in a T20I tri-series with Pakistan and UAE:
- 📍 All matches at Sharjah Cricket Stadium
- 📅 August 29 – September 7, 2025
- Afghanistan’s first match: August 29 vs Pakistan
This tri-series will help players adapt to UAE conditions before the Asia Cup kicks off on September 9.
Key Players to Watch
- Rashid Khan (C): Star leg-spinner and tactical leader
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Aggressive opener with match-winning potential
- Mohammad Nabi: Veteran all-rounder with vast T20 experience
- Azmatullah Omarzai: Power-hitter and effective medium pacer
- Mujeeb & Noor Ahmad: Lethal spin duo for slow UAE pitches
Afghanistan’s Group‑Stage Fixtures
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 9 | Afghanistan vs Hong Kong | UAE |
| September 16 | Afghanistan vs Bangladesh | UAE |
| September 18 | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka | UAE |
Squad Analysis
Strengths:
- World-class spin depth
- Experienced all-rounders
- Explosive opening options
Weaknesses:
- Lack of consistent death bowlers
- Pressure in high-stakes matches
- Inexperience in big knockout games
Recent Form and Build-Up to Asia Cup 2025
Afghanistan has shown promise in recent bilateral series, particularly in spin-friendly conditions. Players like Nabi, Rashid, and Gurbaz have maintained good rhythm across international cricket and global T20 leagues.
Can Afghanistan Make History in Asia Cup 2025?
Afghanistan has long been seen as a dark horse. With more experience and global T20 exposure than ever before, this could be the year they finally break through to the final.
The UAE conditions suit their spin-heavy strategy perfectly. If they start well and handle the big-match nerves, Afghanistan has the talent to beat any side — even giants like India or Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the captain of Afghanistan for Asia Cup 2025?
Rashid Khan is leading the preliminary squad and is expected to captain the final team as well.
2. Has the official squad been announced?
Yes. A 22-player preliminary squad was announced by ACB on August 1, 2025.
3. Will Afghanistan play a warm-up series before Asia Cup 2025?
Yes, they will play in a T20I tri-series with Pakistan and UAE from August 29 to September 7.
4. Where will Afghanistan’s Asia Cup matches be played?
All matches will take place in the UAE, specifically at venues in Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.
5. Can Afghanistan qualify for the Super Four?
Yes, if they finish among the top two in their group (Group B), they will advance to the Super Four stage.
