Afghanistan announces team for 2026 T20 World Cup, Rashid Khan becomes captain

New Delhi: Afghanistan Cricket Board has announced its 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. This prestigious tournament will be held in India and Sri Lanka in February 2026.

Star leg spinner once again commanding the team Rashid Khan Has been handed over to. In the last World Cup, Afghanistan had performed brilliantly and reached the semi-finals, and this time they are pinning even better hopes on Asian pitches.

Major changes and withdrawals in the team

Some experienced players have returned to the team. Gulbadin Naib Will strengthen the middle order, while Naveen-ul-Haq Will contribute to fast bowling after recovering from injury. Fazalhaq Farooqui Has also returned to the team, who could not play in the recent series.

left handed batsman Shahidullah Kamal and wicketkeeper batsman Mohammad Ishaq Has retained its place due to its good performance. Young fast bowler Abdullah Ahmadzai Has been included in the main team for the first time. Spin bowling is considered to be Afghanistan’s main strength, and mujeeb ur rehman It has become even stronger with the return of.

Preparation series against West Indies

Before the World Cup, Afghanistan team UAE In west indies Will play three T20 matches against. This series will be held from 19 to 22 January. During this series, the team will get an excellent opportunity to strengthen its preparations.

Group and first match

Afghanistan is in Group D in the T20 World Cup, in which they along with New Zealand, South Africa, united arab emirates And Canada Will be. The team’s first match on 8 February Chennai Will be against New Zealand.

statements of board officials

CEO of Afghanistan Cricket Board Naseeb Khan Said that they want to carry forward the success of the last World Cup. Asian pitches are suitable for Afghanistan, which has increased their expectations even more.

main selector Ahmed Shah Sulimankhil Said that care has been taken in team selection. Gulbadin And New The return of will provide strength to the team.

Afghanistan team for T20 World Cup 2026

Rashid Khan (captain), Noor Ahmed, Abdullah Ahmedzai, Sadiqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqui, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mohammad Ishaq, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Umarzai, Mujeeb ur Rehman, Darvesh Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran.

Reserve players: Allah Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai, Zia ur Rehman Sharifi.