He ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to break an eight-year hiatus, which will begin on February 19 with the hosts Pakistan assuming New Zealand at the opening of the tournament. This highly anticipated event will feature eight elite teams competing in 15 exciting matches over 19 days. As the deadline to submit provisional squad lists to the ICC approaches, Afghanistan they have joined England, New Zealand and Bangladesh when officially announcing their team for the prestigious tournament. This marks Afghanistan’s first appearance in the Champions Trophy, a testament to their remarkable rise in international cricket.
Afghanistan prepares for historic debut under Hashmatullah Shahidi
Hashmatullah ShahidiThe experienced batsman and tactician will lead Afghanistan in this historic campaign. He Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed a balanced team of 15 members accompanied by traveling reserves. The team features a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, reflecting Afghanistan’s growing depth in cricket skills.
The team includes stalwarts such as Ibrahim Zadrana consistent player in the top order known for anchoring innings with style, and Rahmanullah Gurbazthe explosive wicketkeeper-batsman who has proven instrumental in providing quick starts at the top of the order. Adding more strength to the batting lineup are players like Sediqullah Atala promising young batsman with the potential to make a significant impact, and Rahmat Shah, whose calm and collected approach in the middle order has been the cornerstone of ODI success in Afghanistan.
Spin power led by Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi
Afghanistan’s information department, a key asset for the team, will be headed by Rashid Khanone of the world’s leading players with extensive experience in franchise and international cricket. Supporting him is Mohamed Nabithe experienced all-rounder who brings leadership, ball control and extensive experience in high-pressure tournaments. Together, they form a formidable duo capable of troubling the best batsmen in the world, especially on pitches from the subcontinent. Versatile all terrain Gulbadin Naib and Azmatullah Omarzai He brings crucial balance to the side, offering powerful hitting capabilities in the lower order and reliable medium pace options with the ball. Meanwhile Mujeeb Ur Rahman He failed to find a place in the Afghan team.
Also READ: Bangladesh unveils 15-member squad for Champions Trophy 2025; There is no place for Litton Das.
Driving recent success
Afghanistan will participate in the Champions Trophy thanks to their impressive performances in recent ICC events. His campaign in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup showcased his ability to compete with top teams, while his semi-final in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup underlined his growth as a force to be reckoned with in limited overs cricket. With fit players and a full squad, Afghanistan are primed to make an impact in their Champions Trophy debut.
This historic appearance represents a major milestone for Afghanistan cricket, highlighting its journey from Associate status to competing in one of the ICC’s most prestigious tournaments. Cricket fans and enthusiasts alike will eagerly await his performance on this global stage.
Afghanistan’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy:
Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Allah Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Naveed Zadran.
Reservations: The Apostle of Darwish, The Name of the Crown, The Beautiful Chance