Afghanistan unveils 17-member squad for Asia Cup 2023

ISLAMABAD: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) unveiled a formidable 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2023.

Hashmatullah Shahidi, a seasoned player, assumes the role of captain, leading the squad into the tournament.

Afghanistan sets its sights on the Asia Cup 2023, kickstarting its campaign against Bangladesh on September 3 in Lahore. They will take on host Sri Lanka on September 5 in Lahore in their second group stage clash.

The Afghan selection committee, with strategic foresight, has brought back the experienced all-rounder Karim Janat, a move that holds potential to bolster their lineup.

Last-minute big change to Asia Cup squad

Meanwhile, Azmatullah Omarzai, who had encountered an injury setback during the recent Pakistan 3-match ODI series, has been omitted from the squad.

A notable resurgence graces the Afghanistan squad with the return of the veteran batsman Najibullah Zadran, who had to miss out on the recent ODI series against Pakistan due to injury.

Here’s AfghanAtalan’s lineup for the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2023. 🤩#AfghanAtalan | #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/kHHmR2GhxO

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) August 27, 2023

Anchoring the middle order alongside Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, the trio of Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, and Mohammad Nabi bring depth and experience to the batting lineup.

Afghanistan was recently whitewashed by Pakistan in the three-match ODI series held in Sri Lanka. The Pakistani team not only clinched the series but also secured the top spot in the ICC Men’s ODIs rankings, displacing Australia from the coveted position. As things stand, Afghanistan holds the 9th position in the ICC ODI team rankings.