The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially unveiled its 15-member squad that will carry the nation's hopes in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. In a move that confirms widespread expectations, the dynamic all-rounder Rashid Khan has been retained as the captain to lead the side in the prestigious global tournament.
Rashid Khan to Helm Experienced Core
The selection committee, led by chief selector Afghanistan Cricket Board, has placed its faith in a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting talent. The squad announcement, made on December 31, 2025, sees the return of several key players who have been instrumental in Afghanistan's rise in international cricket.
Alongside captain Rashid Khan, the spin department will be bolstered by the experienced Mujeeb Ur Rahman and the promising Noor Ahmad. The batting lineup is spearheaded by the explosive opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and the ever-reliable Ibrahim Zadran. The middle order will rely on the power-hitting prowess of Mohammad Nabi, whose all-round abilities remain crucial, and the stylish Azmatullah Omarzai.
Pace Attack and Wicketkeeping Options
The pace bowling unit features the likes of Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, and Karim Janat. The squad also includes the young fast bowler Saleem Safi, indicating a focus on nurturing future assets. Behind the stumps, the selectors have opted for Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Mohammad Ishaq as the primary wicketkeeping choices.
The full 15-member Afghanistan squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 is as follows:
- Rashid Khan (Captain)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicketkeeper)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mohammad Nabi
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Ishaq (Wicketkeeper)
- Karim Janat
- Gulbadin Naib
- Nangeyalia Kharote
- Noor Ahmad
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Saleem Safi
Road to the T20 World Cup 2026
This squad announcement marks a significant step in Afghanistan's preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026. The team has shown remarkable growth in the shortest format of the game, and this selection reflects a strategy to build on recent successes. The inclusion of both youth and experience is aimed at creating a balanced side capable of challenging the world's best on the big stage.
The ACB's decision to continue with Rashid Khan as captain underscores the leadership stability they desire. His tactical acumen, combined with his match-winning abilities with both ball and bat, makes him the central figure around which the team is built. The selectors have also named Gulbadin Naib and Mohammad Nabi as key senior figures whose experience in ICC events will be invaluable in the high-pressure environment of a World Cup.
As the countdown to the tournament begins, the Afghanistan cricket team will likely engage in a series of bilateral T20I series and training camps to fine-tune their combinations and strategies. The nation will be eagerly watching, hoping its cricketing heroes can create history on the global platform once again.
