Key talking points from Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026 which includes 15 players and 4 reserve players.
Afghanistan have named a largely settled 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, sticking with the core that powered their historic semi-final run in the previous edition while making a few targeted changes based on form, fitness and role clarity.
The headline calls revolve around Rashid Khan continuing as captain, the return of key bowlers suited to Asian conditions, and a notable omission in the spin department. Afghanistan are the latest entry to the T20 World Cup 2026 squads list.
(updated on February 8, 2026)
Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Rashid Khan (c), Ibrahim Zadran (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Abdullah Ahmadzai. Reserves: AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai and Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi
Rashid Khan Continues As Captain And Bowling Spearhead
Rashid Khan will lead the Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026 once again, underlining the team’s reliance on his leadership and all-round impact. Since the last T20 World Cup, Rashid has been Afghanistan’s standout bowler, picking up 30 wickets in 15 matches at an average of 11.43 and an economy of 6.01, numbers that place him among the most effective T20 bowlers globally.
His presence allows Afghanistan to build their attack around spin-friendly conditions in India and Sri Lanka, with Rashid remaining the central match-winner.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman Returns, AM Ghazanfar Pushed To Reserves
Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s return is one of the most significant selection calls. The off-spinner has taken 17 wickets since the last T20 World Cup and brings control in the powerplay, an area Afghanistan value highly.
His inclusion has pushed young mystery spinner AM Ghazanfar into the reserves. Ghazanfar struggled to make an impact after the last World Cup, managing just two wickets in five matches, prompting selectors to favour experience over experimentation at a global tournament.
Naveen ul Haq Returns After Injury Layoff, But Gets Ruled Out
Naveen ul Haq is ruled out T20 World Cup 2026 after being named in the 15-member list initially.
Naveen-ul-Haq was recalled to the Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026 after recovering from the shoulder injury that ruled him out of the Asia Cup earlier this year. His most recent T20I appearances came in December 2024, where he featured in three matches and made an immediate impact, picking up 8 wickets at an average of 9.87.
Naveen would have added some bite and wicket-taking ability to Afghanistan’s pace attack, offering a sharper seam option to balance their spin-heavy setup, but unfortunately days before the tournament, he has been ruled out with an unknown injury that might require surgery.
Batting Core Backed For Consistency Since 2024
Afghanistan have shown faith in a batting unit that has delivered consistent returns since the last T20 World Cup. Ibrahim Zadran (453 runs), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (410) and Sediqullah Atal (398) have formed the backbone of the top order, prioritising stability and partnerships over wholesale changes.
Rather than reshaping the batting group, selectors have opted for continuity, trusting their core to provide solid platforms in big games.
Spin-First Strategy For Asian Conditions
Overall, Afghanistan’s squad reflects a clear tactical direction. With Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad forming a strong spin trio, supported by pace options in Naveen and Farooqi, Afghanistan have doubled down on a spin-first approach suited to conditions in India and Sri Lanka as they look to build on their breakthrough 2024 campaign. But it was surprising to see them not playing Noor Ahmad in Chennai in the NZ vs AFG T20 World Cup 2026 opening game.
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