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Asia Cup 2025: Mujeeb and Ghazanfar Return to Strengthen Afghanistan’s Spin Attack
Afghanistan Announce Full-Strength Squad for Asia Cup 2025
Afghanistan have named their full 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, with two major inclusions giving them a timely boost ahead of the prestigious tournament. Mujeeb ur Rahman and young spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, who were absent during the Champions Trophy earlier this year, have been recalled to bolster the spin department.
The spin attack, already led by star leg-spinner and captain Rashid Khan, and the evergreen Mohammad Nabi, will now look even sharper heading into the competition.
Afghanistan will kick off their Asia Cup journey against Hong Kong on September 9, in what is set to be the tournament opener.
Key Inclusions Strengthen Afghanistan’s Core
Spin Department Gets a Boost
With Mujeeb and Ghazanfar returning, Afghanistan’s spin arsenal looks formidable. Rashid Khan, often considered among the best T20 spinners in the world, will anchor the attack alongside Nabi, Noor Ahmad, and Sharafuddin Ashraf. This quartet, combined with the experience of Mujeeb, promises to trouble most batting line-ups in the subcontinent.
Afghanistan’s reputation as a spin-heavy side makes them one of the most dangerous teams on Asian pitches.
Batting Line-Up Looks Settled
The batting duties will revolve around Ibrahim Zadran, who has regained his place in the side after recovering earlier this year. He will be joined by consistent performers like Darwish Rasooli and Sediqullah Atal, forming the backbone of the top order.
The wicketkeeping spots will be filled by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the explosive opener, and Mohammad Ishaq, who adds depth to the middle order. Notably, Hazratullah Zazai has been left out to make way for the revised combination.
All-Rounders Provide Balance
A major strength for Afghanistan this year is their line-up of multi-dimensional players. At 40 years of age, Mohammad Nabi still continues to play a central role as the experienced all-rounder. Alongside him, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, and Gulbadin Naib provide the much-needed depth to both batting and bowling departments.
Pace Attack Brings Variations
The fast-bowling unit will be led by promising left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi, supported by Naveen-ul-Haq and Farid Ahmad Malik. While Farooqi has already established himself as Afghanistan’s spearhead with his swing and control, Naveen’s selection is significant considering this could be his first game in 2025 after announcing his retirement from ODIs.
This trio, though not as experienced as the spinners, is capable of making breakthroughs with the new ball and restricting in the death overs.
Afghanistan’s Upcoming Fixtures
Before the Asia Cup opener, Afghanistan will also feature in a tri-series against Pakistan and UAE starting this week. Most of the Asia Cup squad members are expected to take part in the triangular series, making it a perfect preparation ground for the continental event.
Read more about the upcoming cricket tri-series here.
Official Asia Cup 2025 Afghanistan Squad
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Rashid Khan (c)
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Rahmanullah Gurbaz
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Ibrahim Zadran
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Darwish Rasooli
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Sediqullah Atal
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Azmatullah Omarzai
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Karim Janat
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Mohammad Nabi
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Gulbadin Naib
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Sharafuddin Ashraf
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Mohammad Ishaq
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Noor Ahmad
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Mujeeb ur Rahman
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Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar
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Farid Ahmad Malik
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Fazalhaq Farooqi
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Naveen ul Haq
Travelling Reserves: Wafiullah Tarakhail, Nangyal Kharote, Abdullah Ahmadzai.
Can Afghanistan Make a Deep Run at Asia Cup 2025?
With a strong mix of seasoned campaigners and fresh energy, Afghanistan appear better equipped than ever to challenge Asia’s cricketing giants. Their spin attack remains world-class, while their batting line-up is more stable. If their pacers deliver under pressure and the batting clicks consistently, Afghanistan could realistically target a semi-final or even a final spot in the 2025 Asia Cup.
For more details on the tournament’s fixtures and schedule, visit the official Asia Cup 2025 coverage on ESPNcricinfo.
