Afghanistan names Ibrahim Zadran captain for T20I series against Sri Lanka

Ibrahim Zadran is set to lead Afghanistan once again in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, with regular skipper Rashid Khan still recovering from back surgery.

The squad sees Mujeeb Zadran and Mohammad Saleem Safi sidelined due to injuries, with Wafadar Momand earning a call-up in place of Safi. Momand, who has played one T20I for Afghanistan in July 2023, joins the team as they prepare for the series against Sri Lanka.

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The squad includes key players like Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Hazratullah Zazai, and Mohammad Nabi, aiming to strike a balance between experienced players and emerging talents. Chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil emphasized the team’s focus on preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup, aiming to finalize a competitive squad.

Naseeb Khan, CEO of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), highlighted the commitment to nurturing young talent and building a strong bench strength. The series against Sri Lanka, along with upcoming fixtures against Ireland in March, presents an opportunity to test the team’s depth and readiness for major tournaments.

With the T20 World Cup looming, Afghanistan seeks to ensure they have a formidable squad capable of competing at the highest level, with players like Qais Ahmad stepping up in the absence of Rashid Khan.