Asia Cup 2025: 5 Afghanistan players to watch out for in the tournament

Afghanistan have announced their 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, with experienced spin-bowling all-rounder Rashid Khan set to lead the side. They are placed in Group B alongside Hong Kong, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, with all their matches scheduled to be played in Abu Dhabi. The squad has a mix of youth and experience, and several players have the potential to make a strong impact in the tournament.

Here are the 5 Afghanistan players to watch out for in the Asia Cup 2025

1. Rashid Khan

This spin-bowling all-rounder will love to lead the team from the front with both bat and ball. Rashid is known for his skills and the consistency he has shown over the last few years across all formats. Even in different franchise leagues, he has proved how crucial he can be for any team’s success. 

For Afghanistan too, his four overs with the ball and his contributions with the bat in the lower order will be key. In Abu Dhabi conditions, once again, Rashid and other spinners are expected to play a major role. Rashid has played 96 T20Is so far, taking 161 wickets along with scoring 467 runs with the bat at a strike rate of 126.21.

2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

This wicketkeeper-batter will be key at the top order for Afghanistan. Gurbaz is known for his ability to provide solid starts to his team. Not only for Afghanistan, but he has also done the same in many different franchise leagues. 

He has the experience of playing 66 T20Is, scoring 1683 runs at a strike rate of 134.42. So, for Afghanistan to get a quick and solid start in the first innings or while chasing in the second innings, Gurbaz will be a key factor.

3. Fazalhaq Farooqi

Just like Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi, Afghanistan’s left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi will play the same role. First with the new ball and then in the death overs, he will be crucial. Not only his pacy yorkers or length deliveries, but his variations will also be key in Abu Dhabi where wickets are traditionally slow and suited to spinners. 

Hence, his off-cutters can be vital if bowled at the right lengths. The 24-year-old pacer has already played 43 T20Is, where he has picked up 54 wickets at an economy of 6.70.

4. Azmatullah Omarzai

Omarzai is one of the utility players in this Afghanistan side. He can bowl at any phase of the game, and it will not be a surprise if Rashid gives him the new ball alongside Farooqi. With the bat, his primary role is in the lower order, but depending on the situation, he can also be used as a floater. In 47 T20Is so far, he has scored 474 runs and taken 31 wickets.

5. Mohammad Nabi

Another experienced member of this squad is Mohammad Nabi. His all-round contribution will be pivotal for Afghanistan’s success. He is still known for his power-hitting and can play the perfect ‘finisher’ role. In 132 T20Is, he has scored 2237 runs at a strike rate of 136.23, while with the ball, he has taken 97 wickets at an economy of 7.30.

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