the ICC Champions Cup 2025 He is set to break an eight-year hiatus, starting on February 19 with the hosts Pakistan Take on New Zealand In the opening match of the tournament. This highly anticipated event will feature eight elite teams competing in 15 exciting matches over 19 days. As the deadline for submitting provisional team lists to the ICC approaches, Afghanistan They have joined England, New Zealand and Bangladesh In officially announcing their squad for the prestigious tournament. This marks Afghanistan's maiden appearance in the Champions Trophy, a testament to their remarkable rise in international cricket.
Afghanistan is preparing for a historic start under the leadership of Heshmatullah Shahidi
May God have mercy on me, my martyrAn experienced batsman and tactician, he will lead Afghanistan in this historic campaign. the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) He confirmed a balanced team of 15 members accompanied by mobile reserves. The team boasts a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, reflecting Afghanistan's increasing depth in cricketing prowess.
The team includes two stalwarts such as: Ibrahim Zadrana consistent first-rate performer known for nailing roles with flair, and Rahman Allah Gurbazan explosive batsman who has proven effective in providing quick starts at the top of the order. Adding more power to the batting lineup players love Sediqullah Atala promising young batsman with the potential to make a major impact, and Rahmat Shah, whose calm and composed approach in the middle order has been the cornerstone of Afghanistan's ODI success.
The rotation force is led by Rashid Khan and Muhammad Nabi
The Afghan spin department, which is a major asset to the team, will be led Rashid Khanone of the best players in the world with extensive experience in franchise and international cricket. Support him Muhammad is a prophetthe veteran multi-skilled player who has leadership and ball control and great experience in high-pressure tournaments. Together, they form a formidable duo capable of disturbing the best batsmen in the world, especially on the pitches of the Indian subcontinent. Versatile in all respects Gulbuddin Nayeb and Azmatullah Omarzai He brings a crucial balance down the flank, providing strong batting abilities at the bottom of the order and reliable mid-pace options with the ball. In the meantime Mujeeb Rahman He failed to find a place in the Afghan team.
Read also: Bangladesh unveils 15-member squad for Champions Trophy 2025; No room for Leighton Das
Momentum from recent success
Afghanistan will enter the Champions Trophy on the back of their impressive performance in the recent International Champions Trophy events. Their campaign in the 2023 ICC Men's T20 World Cup demonstrated their ability to compete with the top sides, while their run to the semi-finals in the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup underscored their growth as a force to reckon with in limited-overs cricket. With top-level players and a well-rounded squad, Afghanistan are ready to make an impact in their first Champions Trophy appearance.
This historic debut marks a major milestone for Afghanistan cricket, highlighting their journey from affiliate status to competing in one of the ICC's most prestigious tournaments. Fans and cricket enthusiasts alike will be eagerly awaiting their performance on this global stage.
Afghanistan Champions Cup 2025 squad:
Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Siddiqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Gulbuddin Nayeb, Azmatullah Omarzai, Muhammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Allah Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmed, Fazlul Haq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Naveed Zadran.
Reserves: Rasul Darwish, the name of the crown, the beautiful opportunity
