NEW DELHI: Afghanistan on Wednesday unveiled their 15-man squad for the upcoming World Cup in Kabul, featuring the return of fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq. However, despite his recent strong performances, all-rounder Gulbadin Naib did not make the cut.
At the age of 32, Naib had previously captained Afghanistan in the last World Cup, which took place in England four years ago. During that tournament, Afghanistan faced a challenging run, losing all nine of their matches, which ultimately led to his removal from the captaincy.
Nonetheless, Naib, who specialises in medium-pace bowling, demonstrated his worth with a remarkable display in the last three one-day internationals (ODIs). Notably, he claimed seven wickets, including an impressive 4-60 against Bangladesh in a recent Asia Cup encounter in Lahore.
On the other hand, Naveen has been brought back into the squad. He had previously played seven ODIs for Afghanistan, with his last appearance dating back to January 2021.
Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) said the squad is strong and is expected to do well.
"Naveen-ul-Haq returned to the Afghanistan ODI squad after a two-year gap for the World Cup in India and it is a strong squad," said the ACB release.
Hashmatullah Shahidi leads the squad that has four changes following a two-match loss in the Asia Cup and a 3-0 series wipe out against Pakistan in Sri Lanka.
Besides Naib, also out are Karim Janat, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Suliman Safi.
Afghanistan open their 2023 World Cup campaign against Bangladesh in Dharamsala in India on October 7.
Afghanistan will hope their spin quartet of Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad do well on the spin pitches of India.
Afghanistan World Cup squad:
