- Afghanistan have named a strong squad for the series.
- One of the biggest additions to the squad is experienced all-rounder Gulbadin Naib.
- Afghanistan's biggest strength remains their spin-bowling department.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced their squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against India, with the two sides set to face each other from September 13 to 17, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi.
Afghanistan have named a strong squad for the series, with experienced campaigners and promising young players featuring in the 15-member group.
Ibrahim Zadran will lead the side, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been named as the first-choice wicketkeeper.
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One of the biggest additions to the squad is experienced all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, who returns to the T20I setup. His inclusion adds depth to Afghanistan's middle order while also giving the team another bowling option.
Naib's experience of playing against India could prove valuable, particularly in conditions that are expected to favour spin and tactical variations. His ability to adapt to different match situations gives Afghanistan another reliable option in the middle overs.
Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad Lead Spin Attack
Afghanistan's biggest strength remains their spin-bowling department. The squad features star leg-spinner Rashid Khan alongside Noor Ahmad and Nangyal Kharoti, giving the visitors a formidable trio of spin options. Senior all-rounder Mohammad Nabi also brings considerable experience and balance to the squad.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman is another major spin option, while the pace attack includes Fazal Haq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq and Abdullah Ahmadzai.
The batting group features Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib.
Afghanistan Cricket Board Chief Executive Officer Naseeb Khan expressed confidence in the squad and highlighted the significance of hosting India.
“The Afghanistan Cricket Board has always made every effort to select a well-balanced and fully prepared squad for all relevant competitions. We have followed the same approach for the upcoming series against India, and I hope the Afghanistan team will deliver an outstanding performance in these matches.”
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He further described India's visit as an important moment for Afghan cricket. “It is a great pride that Afghanistan is hosting a major cricketing nation for the first time. This reflects the progress Afghan cricket has made toward achieving its major objectives and shows that we are steadily advancing toward the strategic goals identified by the organization.”
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Afghanistan vs India T20I Schedule
Date | Match | Venue |
13th September, 2026 | 1st T20I | AJCS, New Delhi |
15th September, 2026 | 2nd T20I | AJCS, New Delhi |
17th September, 2026 | 3rd T20I | AJCS, New Delhi |
Afghanistan Squad For India T20I Series
Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Noor Rahman (WK), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai and Naveen-ul-Haq.
Ijaz Ahmadzai, Shahidullah Kamal and Fareed Ahmad Malik have been included in the reserve pool for the series.