The Afghanistan Cricket Board has unveiled a 15‑player squad for the three‑match T20I series against India, featuring the much‑anticipated returns of fast bowler Rashid Khan and all‑rounder Mohammad Nabi. The series will be played at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium from September 13‑17.

  • Afghanistan releases a 15‑player squad for the India T20I series.
  • Veteran fast bowler Rashid Khan and all‑rounder Mohammad Nabi are back in the side.
  • Three matches scheduled for September 13, 15 and 17 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed that its national side is ready for the upcoming three‑match T20I series against India. The squad boasts the return of ace pacer Rashid Khan and seasoned all‑rounder Mohammad Nabi, both eager to make an impact against a strong Indian batting line‑up.

The series will be staged at Delhi’s iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium, with the first encounter on September 13 and the finale on September 17. While India will host the series on home soil, Afghanistan will be officially designated as the host nation, giving them a unique home‑away status.

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Historically, the two sides last met in a T20I series in January 2024, a contest India swept 3‑0. This time, Afghanistan hopes to reverse that outcome, especially with senior players back in the fray and a fresh blend of youth adding depth.

Captained by Ibrahim Zadran, the Afghan lineup also includes wicket‑keeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz, spinners Sadiqullah Atal and Darwish Rasooli**, and a host of emerging talent. Fast‑bowling newcomer Navin Ul Haq makes his international comeback after missing last year’s Asia Cup due to injury, bolstering the pace attack.

Three reserve players – Shahdullah Kamal, Farid Ahmed Malik, and Ijaz Ahmadzai – are also named, ensuring bench strength and competition for spots. The series serves as a crucial warm‑up ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, where both teams will vie for a top‑four finish.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Afghanistan’s robust squad announcement not only raises the stakes of this bilateral series but could also shift the balance of power in Asian cricket. Both sides’ preparation, player availability, and tactical tweaks will make this series a defining moment in the lead‑up to major international tournaments.

"Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi’s return provides Afghanistan a strategic edge that could unsettle India’s batting dominance,"
Did You Know?: The first ever India‑Afghanistan T20I match took place in 2010, and the two teams have faced each other twelve times in the format to date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is captaining Afghanistan for this series?
A: Ibrahim Zadran has been appointed as the team captain.

Q: Will any uncapped players make their debut?
A: Several young players in the squad, especially reserves like Shahdullah Kamal, could earn their first cap during the series.