The forthcoming Cricket Asia Cup 2023 marks the 16th edition of the 50 Overs Asia Cup and will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The competition will witness the participation of 6 teams battling for the prestigious trophy, culminating in the Asia Cup 2023 final on September 17th in Sri Lanka.
Afghanistan emerges as a team of considerable interest in the upcoming Asia Cup 2023, possessing ample experience in Subcontinental conditions over the years. Their recent triumph against Bangladesh in the ODI series boosts their confidence. Hashmatullah Shahidi is all set to lead Afghanistan in the Asia Cup 2023, with Rashid Khan serving as his deputy.
The role of primary opener for Afghanistan in the Asia Cup 2023 could be undertaken by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who has garnered experience through participation in T20 leagues across the globe. Gurbaz, a fearless and underrated talent in the cricketing realm, is known for his aggressive approach at the top, sharing the opening duties with Ibrahim Zadran. The dependable Ibrahim Zadran has solidified his spot as an opener, making noteworthy contributions across formats.
Hashmatullah Shahidi is a left-handed batter whi will lead Afghanistan. Shahidi’s adeptness in ODI cricket and unwavering temperament in international matches contribute significantly to his team. The Afghanistan team’s experience will be enriched by the inclusion of Najibullah Zadran, a left-handed batsman with right-arm off-spin capabilities, who debuted in 2012. Rahmat Shah, another crucial member, brings his extensive experience playing across Asia to bolster the team’s prospects in both the Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup.
Following his resignation as Afghanistan’s captain post the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, Mohammad Nabi made a resounding comeback to the team, but his inclusion in the Asia Cup squad looks a bit doubtful. Renowned as one of the world’s premier all-rounders, Rashid Khan remains a formidable asset to Afghanistan.
Azmatullah Omarzai joins the ranks as the third all-rounder, bolstering the squad with his recent contributions. In the spin department, Afghanistan boasts an array of options, including Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmed, Mohammad Nabi, Zahir Khan, and Qais Ahmed. These spin maestros will be pivotal to the team’s fortunes in continental events, providing crucial breakthroughs.
Fazalhaq Farooqi, a consistent presence in Afghanistan’s playing XI, has emerged as a match-winner in international cricket, delivering impactful performances. The left-arm pacer’s global exposure in T20 leagues enhances his bowling prowess. Completing the pace attack, Fareed Ahmad and Naveen ul Haq stand as reliable options, their variation in the death overs a valuable asset to the team’s success.
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Afghanistan Squad for Asia Cup 2023
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Najibullah Zadran
- Rahmat Shah
- Riaz Hassan
- Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper)
- Mohammad Nabi
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Rashid Khan (vice-captain)
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Noor Ahmad
- Fazalhaq Farooq
- Fareed Ahmad Malik
- Naveen ul Haq
