Afghanistan’s rising 18-year-old spin sensation, AM Ghazanfar, has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a serious back injury. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced on Wednesday that Ghazanfar sustained a fracture in his L4 vertebra during Afghanistan’s tour of Zimbabwe late last year. The talented right-arm spinner will require at least four months to recover, sidelining him from cricket during this period.
A Promising Start Interrupted
Ghazanfar had made an impressive start to his ODI career, taking 21 wickets in just 11 matches. His skills earned him a spot in the UAE’s ILT20 league, where he played for MI Emirates in January. However, his performance in the league was underwhelming, managing only one wicket in three games at a high economy rate of 9.48. Despite this setback, his potential had been a key part of Afghanistan’s plans for the Champions Trophy.
Nangeyalia Kharote Joins the Squad
In Ghazanfar’s absence, Afghanistan has called up 20-year-old left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote, who was initially in the reserves. Kharote has played seven ODIs and six T20Is since his debut in March 2024. His recent performances include standout figures of 3 for 28 against Bangladesh in the second ODI of a series held in Sharjah last November, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Afghanistan’s Spin Attack Remains Strong
Even with Ghazanfar’s absence, Afghanistan boasts a formidable spin lineup featuring Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi. However, the team continues to miss Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who has been sidelined from ODIs since the 2023 World Cup. Mujeeb, who played the SA20 season with the Paarl Royals, is still recovering from an injury and was not included in the Champions Trophy squad.
Squad Overview
Afghanistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy remains strong, led by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and vice-captain Rahmat Shah. The inclusion of young talents like Nangeyalia Kharote and experienced campaigners like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi ensures a balanced team ready to compete against the world’s best.
Afghanistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper)
- Sediqullah Atal
- Rahmat Shah (vice-captain)
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Mohammad Nabi
- Rashid Khan
- Fareeh Ahmad
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Nangeyalia Kharote
- Naveed Zadran
- Noor Ahmad
Afghanistan will look to overcome these challenges and make their mark in the Champions Trophy. With their strong spin arsenal and a mix of youth and experience, the team remains a dark horse in the tournament.
