Champions Trophy: Afghanistan's strongest starting playing XI

Afghanistan has emerged as a giant killer in international cricket in recent years. In the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, they made history by defeating strong teams like England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. They also came close to beating Australia, but a stunning effort from Glenn Maxwell took the game away from them.

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Fast forward to the 2024 T20 World Cup, where Afghanistan made history once again by reaching the semi-finals. Though they eventually lost to South Africa, their journey was remarkable. In the Super Eight stage, they stunned Australia and Bangladesh, securing a spot in the final four and proving their rise as a force in world cricket. 

The Afghans enter this upcoming event after securing ODI series wins over South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe respectively. They are placed in Group B alongside Australia, England, and South Africa. Their campaign begins on 21 February against the Proteas at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Afghanistan has announced a strong squad, and they are likely to stick with their reliable opening pair—wicketkeeper-batters Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. Gurbaz will look to continue his attacking approach, while Zadran may be tasked with anchoring the innings.

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Rahmat Shah will play a key role at number three, followed by skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi at number four. The middle order features three crucial all-rounders—Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, and Gulbadin Naib. Their all-round abilities could be decisive for Afghanistan.

Rashid Khan will once again lead the spin attack. Over the years, he has troubled batters worldwide, and his ability to score quick runs in crucial moments adds extra value. Youngster Noor Ahmad will support him, having already impressed in various franchise leagues.

Fazalhaq Farooqi and Farid Ahmad will handle the pace attack, while Nabi’s off-spin could play a big role alongside Rashid and Noor on spin-friendly pitches. Opposition batters will have to work hard to score freely against Afghanistan’s well-rounded bowling unit.

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Here is Afghanistan's strongest starting playing XI for the Champions Trophy

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Farid Ahmad.

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