Big Names Dropped, Youngsters In; Key Takeaways From AFG Squad For BAN Series

Kaushik Kashyap

Afghanistan. [Source - @ACBofficials/x.com]Afghanistan. [Source - @ACBofficials/x.com]

Afghanistan have announced their squads for the upcoming white-ball series against Bangladesh, with action set to begin with three T20Is in Sharjah on October 2, 3, and 5, followed by three ODIs in Abu Dhabi from October 8 to 14. The selections come after a disappointing Asia Cup campaign.

The squads showcase a blend of experience and youth, offering several talking points ahead of the high-stakes series. Key players to watch, emerging talent, and strategic choices will define Afghanistan’s approach. Here are the main takeaways, from Afghanistan's T20I and ODI squads for the white-ball series against Bangladesh.

Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, and Fazalhaq Farooqi Dropped After Poor Form

Afghanistan’s squads announcement saw the notable exclusions of Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, all struggling with form. Their recent dismal performances in the Asia Cup made their omissions almost inevitable.

Karim Janat’s inconsistent T20I form, averaging 15.4 with a 117.4 strike rate since 2022, including a poor Asia Cup showing, made his exclusion from Afghanistan’s white-ball squad long overdue.

Gulbadin Naib, despite his experience, failed to make an impact, with disappointing outings in the Asia Cup and Champions Trophy. Left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi also underperformed, averaging 45.3 in ODIs since 2024 and 26.6 in T20Is this year, prompting selectors to give chances to other players.

Mohammad Nabi Eyes 2027 ODI World Cup at 42

Mohammad Nabi, still a key figure in Afghanistan’s ODI plans, is eyeing the 2027 World Cup at the age of 42. His longevity and fitness continue to impress selectors.

The veteran all-rounder has been pivotal for Afghanistan over the years. Even at 40, as seen in the Asia Cup, he displayed his fluent power, smashing sixes and contributing crucial performances with both bat and ball.

With the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa approaching, Nabi remains an option that we can take from his name being in the ODI squad. His experience and skill set could prove valuable but only time will tell if he can still carry on for two more years.

Afghanistan’s Left-Arm Spin Woes Remain Unsolved

Afghanistan should have picked a left handed batter like Farmanullah to address their struggles against left-arm spin. He has been in fine form in domestic cricket, including in the Shpageeza League where he had a strike-rate of 143.84 batting in middle-order.

Left-arm spinners have dominated Afghanistan’s T20I batting since 2024, averaging 20.19 with an economy of 6.56, highlighting the team’s vulnerability and the need of a left handed batter like Farmanullah.

Afghanistan's Exciting Young Talents In

Abdollah Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad, and Wafiullah Tarakhil form Afghanistan’s exciting young inclusions. Abdollah, who is there in both the squads, a raw pace bowler, brings energy and potential, especially in Naveen-ul-Haq’s injury absence.

Bashir Ahmad, the tall left-arm pacer, can swing the ball both ways. He faces the challenge of filling Fazalhaq Farooqi’s shoes but offers promise in both T20Is and ODIs for Afghanistan.

Wafiullah Tarakhil impressed in the Shpageeza League as a top-order batter, scoring 298 runs at a strike rate of 155. His inclusion in the T20Is highlights the team's vision of having a free flowing batting in the shortest format.