Afghanistan Announces Squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Kabul: Afghanistan has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, slated to take place in the West Indies and the USA in June. The squad, led by star spinner Rashid Khan, features a blend of experienced players and promising youngsters, as per an ICC report.

Compared to the previous edition, Afghanistan has made several additions to its lineup. Karim Janat, Mohammad Ishaq, and Noor Ahmad have earned spots in the squad, injecting fresh talent into the team.

Notably absent from the roster is Hashmatullah Shahidi, who captained Afghanistan in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Shahidi, whose last T20I appearance dates back to 2022, will not feature in this year’s tournament.

One of the rising stars to watch out for is Nangyal Kharoti, who made his international debut against Ireland in March. The 20-year-old showcased his potential during the series, impressing with five wickets in three matches at an economy rate of just 5.90.

Joining Kharoti in the squad is wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Ishaq, a familiar face from Afghanistan’s appearances in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cups in 2020 and 2022.

Rashid Khan will spearhead Afghanistan’s spin department, supported by Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Nangyal Kharoti, and veteran Mohammad Nabi. The team’s fast-bowling lineup comprises Naveen-ul-Haq, Fareed Ahmad, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who retain their spots from previous tournaments.

The full squad includes Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Fareed Ahmad Malik.

With a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, Afghanistan aims to make a mark on the global stage and compete fiercely in the prestigious T20 World Cup event.