The excitement is mounting as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off next month in Pakistan and the UAE. Cricket enthusiasts across the globe are eagerly awaiting the showdown among eight competing nations. England was the first to announce its squad, and India is set to reveal its roster soon. In a thrilling development, Afghanistan has publicly named its 15-player squad, marking a historic debut for each member in the Champions Trophy. While all selected players have prior international cricket experience, this will be their first foray into the prestigious tournament, adding to the event’s allure.
Afghanistan Joins the Champions Trophy Fray
Following an outstanding performance in the 2023 World Cup, the Afghanistan cricket team stunned many by qualifying for the Champions Trophy. Fans can expect an exhilarating display from the team, renowned for its explosive batting and formidable spin bowling strategies. Key players include dynamic batsmen such as Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, and Hashmatullah Shahidi, alongside exceptional bowlers like Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Noor Ahmad. Additional strength lies in their all-rounders, such as Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai, who bring versatility to the squad.
Star Opener’s Triumphant Return
The Afghanistan team’s potential receives a significant boost with the return of star opener Ibrahim Zadran, who has overcome injury and rejoined the squad. Zadran has not played international cricket since the T20 World Cup semi-finals last year, following a critical injury sustained during a domestic T20 tournament in August. His recent participation in the Bangladesh Premier League signifies his readiness for the Champions Trophy, where he boasts an impressive ODI record: 1,440 runs at an average of 48, including five centuries and seven half-centuries over 33 matches.
Rising Star in Spin Bowling
The captaincy of the Afghan team will once again fall into the capable hands of Hashmatullah Shahidi, who led the squad during the recent World Cup. The most anticipated player is undoubtedly the young spinner, Ghazanfgar, who made his international debut last year. His mystery spin has left a lasting impression on batsmen, and he is now set to participate in his first ICC tournament for Afghanistan. With a stellar average of just 13.57 from his first 11 matches, Ghazanfgar has taken 21 wickets, showcasing his potential as a key player.
Complete Squad of Afghanistan
The official squad for Afghanistan at the Champions Trophy consists of:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Sedikullah Atal
- Rahmat Shah
- Ikraram Ali Khil
- Gulbadin Naib
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mohammad Nabi
- Rashid Khan
- Allah Ghazanfgar
- Noor Ahmad
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Farid Malik
- Naveed Zadran
As Afghanistan makes its Champions Trophy debut, cricket fans worldwide will be eager to see how this burgeoning team performs on such a grand stage. With a mix of youth and experience, Afghanistan is poised to make a significant impact in the tournament.