Afghanistan fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq is set to make his return to international cricket after being named in the squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against India in Delhi.
The series will also mark a new chapter for Afghanistan, with Ibrahim Zadran taking charge as the team’s T20I captain.
Naveen Back After Long Injury Layoff
Naveen has spent a considerable period away from international cricket because of a serious shoulder injury.
The 26-year-old was initially ruled out of the Asia Cup last year and subsequently missed the 2026 T20 World Cup. He later underwent surgery for a stress fracture in his right shoulder.
His last international appearance for Afghanistan came in December 2024.
Naveen has already retired from ODI cricket, making the upcoming T20I series particularly important as he looks to establish himself again in Afghanistan’s shortest-format setup.
Gulbadin Naib Also Returns
Afghanistan have also recalled experienced allrounder Gulbadin Naib.
His return provides additional depth to both the middle order and bowling attack, giving the new-look side another experienced option in crucial situations.
Naib’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball could prove particularly valuable against India, who remain one of the strongest teams in international T20 cricket.
Noor Rahman Earns First Call-Up
Uncapped wicketkeeper Noor Rahman has earned his place in the 15-member squad after producing impressive performances in domestic cricket and the Shpageeza Cricket League.
He has been selected as the backup wicketkeeper behind Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
The inclusion gives Afghanistan another young option as the team continues to develop its next generation of players.
Also Read-BCCI Struggles to Find New Title Sponsor
Strong Spin Department
Afghanistan have once again assembled a formidable group of spin bowlers.
The squad includes Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad and Nangyal Kharoti.
With conditions in Delhi often capable of assisting spin, Afghanistan could rely heavily on this group during the series.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman is also included in the squad, further strengthening Afghanistan’s bowling resources.
Ibrahim Zadran Begins Captaincy Era
The series will be Ibrahim Zadran’s first assignment as Afghanistan’s T20I captain.
He takes over at an important stage for the team as Afghanistan look to build towards future global tournaments.
Zadran will have experienced players such as Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib around him, while the return of Naveen provides another major boost to the bowling attack.
Three-Match Series in Delhi
The three T20Is are currently scheduled to take place in Delhi on September 13, 15 and 17.
The series is particularly significant because Afghanistan will be the designated home team, despite all three matches being played in India.
The two sides have already faced each other in Tests and ODIs this year, making the T20I series the final part of their multi-format engagements.
Afghanistan Squad
Ibrahim Zadran (captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Noor Rahman (wicketkeeper), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai and Naveen-ul-Haq.
Reserve players: Ijaz Ahmadzai, Shahidullah Kamal and Fareed Ahmad Malik.
With Naveen returning from a lengthy injury absence and Ibrahim Zadran beginning his tenure as T20I captain, Afghanistan will enter the series with a blend of experience and emerging talent.