Naveen-ul-Haq returns to Afghanistan squad for T20I series against India
Afghanistan has announced its squad for a three-match T20I series against India, featuring the return of Naveen-ul-Haq and the debut captaincy of Ibrahim Zadran.
Naveen-ul-Haq returns to Afghanistan squad for T20I series against India
Afghanistan has named a 15-member squad for a three-match T20I series against India, headlined by the return of fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq. The matches are scheduled for September 13, 15, and 17, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi.
Naveen-ul-Haq returns to the national setup after a long absence caused by a shoulder injury. The injury initially ruled the 26-year-old out of the Asia Cup last year and the T20 World Cup earlier this year. He subsequently underwent surgery for a stress fracture in his right shoulder, an ailment that also kept him out of a T20I series against the West Indies and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Naveen, who retired from ODI cricket after the 2023 World Cup, last played for Afghanistan in December 2024.
The series marks a leadership transition for Afghanistan, as Ibrahim Zadran will lead the side in his first assignment as the full-time T20I captain. Zadran arrives at the helm following a performance at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 where he scored 95 off 56 balls against Canada.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced the squad on Monday, August 24, 2026. ACB Chief Executive Officer Naseeb Khan stated that the board aimed to select a well-balanced and fully prepared squad
for the series. Khan noted that hosting a major cricketing nation for the first time is a point of great pride
that reflects the progress of Afghan cricket toward its strategic goals.
Joining Naveen-ul-Haq in the pace attack are Fazalhaq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai, and all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai.
The middle order and bowling options are further bolstered by the return of experienced all-rounder Gulbadin Naib. According to the ICC, Naib has a record of strong performances against India in T20Is, averaging 44.75 with a strike-rate of 130.65. Naib also recently scored 63 runs off 35 balls against New Zealand during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
The squad introduces new talent in the form of Noor Rahman, an uncapped wicketkeeper-batter selected as the second-choice gloveman behind Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Rahman earned his spot following impressive returns in the Shpageeza Cricket League and other domestic cricket competitions.
Afghanistan's spin department remains a core strength, featuring Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Nangyal Kharoti. Senior all-rounder Mohammad Nabi is also included to provide balance and experience to the lineup.
Squad Details
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Captain | Ibrahim Zadran |
| Wicketkeepers | Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Noor Rahman |
| Batters/Middle Order | Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli |
| All-rounders | Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi |
| Spinners | Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman |
| Fast Bowlers | Fazalhaq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Naveen-ul-Haq |
The ACB has also named three reserve players to provide flexibility: Ijaz Ahmadzai, Shahidullah Kamal, and Fareed Ahmad Malik.
The series begins on September 13 with the first T20I.
