The ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 is all set to begin on October 18 in Oman. This tournament features eight teams, offering a platform for young cricketers from across Asia to showcase their talent. Divided into two groups, ?each team will play three matches within their group. The top two teams from each group will move on to the semi-finals, with the winners advancing to the final. As the competition progresses, it promises to unveil future stars of Asian cricket while providing i??ntense competition among emerging teams.

Group composition and key competitors

Group A consists of Afghanistan A, Sri Lanka A, Bangladesh A and Hong Kong, while Group B includes India A, Oman, UAE and Pakistan Shaheens. H?is?torically, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have been the most successful teams in this tournament, each boasting two titles. India, with one title to their name, will also aim to build on their success.

This year’s tournament not only focuses on emerging talent but also carries a competitive edge, with top cricketing nations looking to groom future players. Each team will aim to capitalize on their opportunities to make a mark in the international circuit. With the semi-finals scheduled to take place after the group stage, the tournament’s knockout rounds will likely produce high-stakes encounters. The winners of the semi-finals will then compete in the final, slated for October 27.

Afghanistan A’s opening clash and competitive spirit

The second match will feature a Group A contest between Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A. This game will set the tone for the rest of the tournamen?t, as both teams will look to establish early momentum. Afghanistan A, known for their explosive young players, are expected to be one of the frontrunners in their group. On the other hand, Sri Lanka A will also aim to win and prove their strength in this emerging competition. The contest promises to be a great encounter, offering a glimpse into the fierce competition that will unfold over the ten-d?ay event.

Also READ: Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 Schedule: Date, Squads, Match Tim??e, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

Afghanistan A’s top-choice playing XI for the Men’s T20 Emerging Asia Cup 2024:

• Sediqullah Atal (c) – A reliable top-order batter and captain, Sediqullah leads from the front with aggressive stroke play. His ability to anchor innings is vital for the team’s stability.

• Shahidullah Kamal – A composed left-hander, Kamal brings balance to the top order. His experience in building partnerships strengthens Afghanistan A’s batting depth. He is an allrounder who could bowl left arm spin as well.
• Karim Janat – A dynamic all-rounder, Janat is crucial in the middle order with his explosive batting and useful seam bowling, providing flexibility in both departments.
• Mohammad Ishaq – As a middle-order batter and also a wicketkeeper, Ishaq adds resilience to the lineup. His ability to rotate strike and finish innings under pressure enhances the team’s chances.
• Numan Shah (wk) – A dependable wicketkeeper-batter, Numan’s agility behind the stumps complements his calmness while batting, often playing crucial knocks in tight situations.
• Sharafuddin Ashraf – A left-arm orthodox spinner, Sharafuddin offers control in the middle overs with his accurate bowling, while also contributing lower-order runs when needed.
• Qais Ahmad – A talented leg-spinner known for his ability to extract sharp turn, Qais is a key middle-overs bowler who can break partnerships with his variations.
• Abdul Rahman – A promising pace-bowling all-rounder, Rahman’s aggressive bowling and ability to hit boundaries make him a valuable asset lower down the order.
• Allah Ghazanfar – A tall off-spinner, Ghazanfar’s ability to maintain tight lines adds pressure on the opposition during crucial overs, often picking up key wickets.
• Bilal Sami – Leading the pace attack, Sami’s raw pace and ability to bowl yorkers at the death make him Afghanistan A’s go-to fast bowler in critical situations.
• Nangeyalia Kharote – A disciplined left-arm spinner, Kharote’s control over his flight and guile make him effective in slowing down the scoring rate, especially on turning tracks.

Also READ: Men’s T??20 Emerg??ing Asia Cup 2024: Best playing XI for Bangladesh A

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After a challenging Test and ODI series, Afghanistan gears up for the final leg of their tour, a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. The batt?leground for the shortest format series is Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla, promising thrilling clashes on February 17, 1??9 and 21.

Key player absences and inclusion

Facing a one-sided defeat in the Test and a 3-0 white-wash in the ODIs, Afghanistan will enter the T20Is with a point to prove. Led by Ibrahim Zadran, the team will miss the services of senior spinner Rashid Khan, recovering from back surgery, and the injured Mujeeb ur Rahman. While Wafadar Momand makes a return in the side after his lone appearance in 2023. Wicketkeepers Rahmatullah Gurbaz and Mohammad Ishaq Rahimi will be crucial behind the stumps.

Afghanistan squad dynamics for the T20I series against Sri Lanka

Naveen-ul-Haq‘s return adds firepower to the pace department, complementing Fazal Haq Farooqi and Fareed Ahmad. In the spin department, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad and Sharafuddin Ashraf will aim to bamboozle Sri Lankan batters. Mohammad Nabi‘s all-round capabilities bring depth to the squad, with Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat and Gulbadin Naib adding versatility as dynamic all-rounders. Hazratullah Zazai and Najibullah Zadran, known for their explosive batting, will look to pro?vide Afghanistan with formidable starts and impactful contributions in the middle or??der.

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, T?20I series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Afghanistan’s top-choice best playing XI for the T20I series against Sri Lanka:

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Opener): Known for his explosive stroke play, Gurbaz serves as the dynamo at the top of the order. His aggressive approach sets the tone for Afghanistan, providing early momentum with his ability to take on opposition bowlers.
2. Ibrahim Zadran (Captain – Top order stability): Skipper Ibrahim brings stability to the top order, combining flair with responsibility. His leadership qualities are crucial for guiding the team, and as a talented batters, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the team’s fortunes.
3. Hazratullah Zazai (Power-hitting specialist): Zazai, a T20 specialist, possesses incredible power-hitting abilities. His aggressive style and capability to dominate bowlers make him a constant threat in the powerplay, a vital asset in Afghanistan’s aggressive batting lineup.
4. Najibullah Zadran (Middle order finisher): A finisher par excellence, Najibullah adds depth to the middle order. His ability to handle pressure situations and finish innings with aggressive strokes makes him invaluable for Afghanistan’s T20 aspirations.
5. Mohammad Nabi (All-rounder maestro): Nabi, an all-rounder par excellence, brings a wealth of experience. His stability in batting, off-spin bowling, and knack for contributing in crucial moments make him a cornerstone in Afghanistan’s T20 setup.
6. Azmatullah Omarzai (Promising all-rounder): A young and promising all-rounder, Omarzai’s aggressive batting complements his handy spin bowling. His dual abilities add balance to the side, providing options with both bat and ball in the middle overs.
7. Gulbadin Naib (Experienced all-rounder): Gulbadin, an experienced all-rounder, plays the role of a finisher and contributes with the ball. His leadership qualities add experience to the team, enhancing the overall balance in Afghanistan’s playing XI.
8. Naveen-ul-Haq (Pace-bowling prospect): Naveen, a rising pace-bowling prospect, injects energy into the fast-bowling department. His ability to generate pace, extract bounce, and strike early in the innings adds potency to Afghanistan’s bowling attack.
9. Qais Ahmad (Skillful leg-spinner): Qais, a skillful leg-spinner, introduces spin variation to the bowling lineup. His ability to deceive batters with variations and pick up crucial wickets in the middle overs makes him a potent force.
10. Noor Ahmed (Left-arm mystery spinner): Noor, a left-arm spinner, provides spin support to the team. His tight control over line and length, coupled with the ability to vary his pace, makes him a reliable option to contain runs and break partnerships.
11. Fazalhaq Farooqi (Exciting fast bowler): An exciting fast bowler, Farooqi adds pace and aggression to the bowling attack. His ability to generate movement, bowl with pace, and pick up early wickets showcases his potential as a match-winner for Afghanistan.

Also READ: Sri Lanka announ?ces 16-?man squad for Afghanistan T20Is; Binura Fernando replaces injured Dushmantha Chameera

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In the upcoming three-match ODI series between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, set to take place from February 9 to 14 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka will be eager to carry forward the momentum gained from their convincing 10-wicket victory in the one-off Test??. Meanwhile, Afghanistan will seek redemption and aim to turn the tables in the limited-overs format after their Test defeat.

Absence of star player Rashid Khan

Hashmatullah Shahidi will continue to lead the Afghanistan side, assuming the captaincy role. However, the absence of star spinner Rashid Khan, who is recovering from back surgery conducted late last year, poses a challenge for Afghanistan. To fill this void, the experienced Qais Ahmad has been included ??in the squad, providing a valuab?le addition to the spin department.

Inclusion of important players

This ODI series holds particular significance for Afghanistan as it marks their return to the 50-over format since the ICC World Cup 2023. The team will be determined to make a resounding statement in t?his series and enhance its cricketing reputation.

The inclusion of reserve players from the CWC 2023, Gulbadin Naib and Fareed Ahmad, adds depth to the squad, and both players have earned their spots for this series. Naveed Zadran, an impressive pacer w??ho showcased his skills in the recent one-off Test against Sri Lanka, also features in the squad as an uncapped player. His presence introduces an element of unpredictability to the Afghan bowling attack.

Also READ: IPL 2024: Here’s the fascinating u??ntold story behind MS Dhoni’s new bat sticker that drives fan?s wild

Afghanistan’s top-choice playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka:

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz:

• Explosive batting: Gurbaz, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, is known for his aggressive batting style, particularly in the powerplays.
• Agility behind the stumps: Gurbaz’s quick reflexes and agility as a wicketkeeper make him effective in taking sharp catches and stumpings.
• Thrives in pressure: Gurbaz excels in pressure situations, providing a valuable contribution in the early overs.

2. Ibrahim Zadran:

• Aggressive batting approach: Ibrahim Zadran brings an aggressive approach to his batting, capable of taking on bowlers and scoring quickly.
• Fielding prowess: Zadran’s fielding skills add value to the team’s overall performance, with a strong arm and safe hands.
• Versatile contributor: Whether with the bat or on the field, Zadran offers versatility, contributing in multiple facets of the game.

3. Rahmat Shah (Vice-Captain):

• Classical batting style: Rahmat Shah, the vice-captain, is a top-order batter with an elegant and classical right-handed batting style.
• Versatility against pace and spin: Capable against both pace and spin, Rahmat Shah provides stability at the top of the order.
• Setting the tone: Known for setting the tone, Rahmat Shah adapts his approach to either anchor the innings or accelerate as needed.

4. Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain):

• Batting prowess: Shahidi, the captain, is a solid middle-order batter with a technique to anchor the innings. He excels in building partnerships.
• Leadership qualities: Known for a calm demeanor, Shahidi’s captaincy is marked by strategic decision-making and fostering team cohesion.
• Spin mastery: Effective against spin bowling, Shahidi is adept at rotating the strike and finding the gaps.

5. Azmatullah Omarzai:

• All-round capabilities: Azmatullah Omarzai is an all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball, adding balance to the team.
• Big-hitting batting style: Known for his powerful hitting, Omarzai can be a game-changer in the middle order, particularly in the death overs.
• Handy bowling option: Omarzai’s bowling provides a useful option, offering variations and control during crucial phases of the game.

6. Mohammad Nabi:

• Experienced all-rounder: Nabi, a seasoned all-rounder, brings a wealth of experience to the squad. His batting and off-spin bowling make him a key player.
• Middle-order stability: Nabi’s ability to stabilize the middle order with his composed batting is crucial, providing a reliable option for the team.
• Wicket-taking off-spin: As an off-spinner, Nabi has a knack for picking up important wickets, adding control and variety to the bowling attack.

7. Gulbadin Naib:

• Medium-fast bowling all-rounder: Gulbadin Naib, a medium-fast bowling all-rounder, contributes with both bat and ball, adding balance to the team.
• Batting resilience: Naib’s resilience in the lower order can prove vital in finishing innings and contributing quick runs.
• Handy seam bowling: With his seam bowling, Naib provides an additional option for the captain in various bowling situations.

8. Riaz Hassan:

• Pace bowling specialist: Riaz Hassan, a pace bowler, adds depth to the squad’s fast bowling department with his ability to generate pace and bounce.
• Wicket-taking ability: Known for his knack of taking crucial wickets, Hassan plays a pivotal role in breaking partnerships and providing breakthroughs.
• Tactical bowling: With a strategic mindset, Hassan can adapt his bowling style based on match situations, making him a valuable asset.

9. Qais Ahmad:

• Leg-spin specialist: Qais Ahmad is a leg-spin specialist, bringing a potent spin option to the squad with his ability to turn the ball both ways.
• Wicket-taking threat: Qais poses a wicket-taking threat in the middle overs, often breaking partnerships and creating pressure on the opposition.
• Economical bowling: Known for his economical spells, Ahmad can control the run rate and build pressure, making him a crucial part of the spin department.

10. Noor Ahmad:

• Left-arm chinaman spinner: Noor Ahmad, a left-arm chinaman spinner, adds a unique dimension to the spin attack, creating variation in the bowling lineup.
• Deceptive spin: With his deceptive spin and unorthodox style, Ahmad can surprise batter, potentially leading to breakthroughs in crucial situations.
• Youthful zest: Ahmad’s youthful enthusiasm can bring energy to the field, and his unorthodox style may pose challenges for the opposition.

11. Mujeeb Ur Rahman:

• Mystery spin bowling: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, known for his mystery spin, can bamboozle batters with a variety of deliveries, including the off-spin, leg-spin, and carrom ball.
• Early wicket-taker: Mujeeb’s knack for picking up early wickets in the powerplays makes him a valuable asset, putting pressure on the opposition batters.

Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Sri Lan?ka’s best XI for ODI series against Afghanistan

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Afghanistan are set to engage in a riveting three-match T20I series against India, commencing on January 11 at the Punjab Cricket Associati??on IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. The battle will intensify with the subsequent clashes on January 14 and January 17, promising cricket enthusiasts a thrilling spectacle.

Countdown to T20 World Cup 2024

This series takes on paramount importance as it serves as the penultimate T20I assignment for the Afghan side before they plunge into the much-anticipated T20 World Cup 2024. The global cricketing community eagerly awaits the showdown in the West In?dies and the USA, scheduled from June 1 to Jun??e 29.

Leadership continuity

Ibrahim Zadran, fresh from his successful stint leading Afghanistan to a triumphant 2-1 series victory against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in S??harjah, will continue to command the squad against India. His leadership prowess and recent success position him as a pivotal figure in guiding Afghanistan through the challenges posed by the formidable Men in Blue.

Also READ: MI Cape Town appoints new captain?? after Rashid Khan gets ruled out of SA20

Afghanistan’s top-choice playing eleven for the T20I series against India:

Leadership and opener dynamo:

1.Ibrahim Zadran (c):

Zadran, entrusted with the captaincy, stands as a beacon of leadership at the top of the order. A formidable young opener, Zadran’s technical finesse and bold captaincy style are poised to shape the team’s approach, providing both stability and aggression.

2.Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk): Rahmanullah, the audacious wicketkeeper-batter, takes center stage as the dynamic opener. Armed with explosive stroke play and a penchant for dominating powerplays, he promises to set the early tone, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess.

Middle order maestros:

3. Rahmat Shah:

Rahmat, the seasoned middle-order maestro, adds a touch of class and resilience to the lineup. His classical batting styl??e and wealth of experience make him a lynchpin, navigating pressure with finesse and b??uilding crucial partnerships.

4. Najibullah Zadran: Najibullah, the middle-order dynamo, injects the lineup with audacious stroke play. His ability to ??accelerate the run rate and introduce innovation in shot selection brings a daring flair, making him a critical component in the middle overs.

Versatile all-round impact:

5. Mohammad Nabi: Nabi, the versatile all-rounder, takes center stage in shaping both the batting and bowling dynamics. With a wealth of experience, Nabi’s adaptability, skillful batting, and effective off-spin contribute to a multifaceted team approach.

6. Karim Janat: Karim, the impactful all-rounder, promises significant contributions ??with a blend of aggressive batting and medium-fast bowling. His dynamic style adds versatility, ensuring a strategic edge in varied game scenarios.

Strategic spin and seam arsenal:

7. Mujeeb Ur Rahman: Mujeeb, the spin wizard, elevates the team’s strategic depth. Renowned for his crafty spin bowling and pivotal wickets in the middle overs, Rahman’s presence adds a potent dimension to the overall team strategy.

8. Sharafuddin Ashraf: Ashraf, the left-arm spinner, is a vital strategic asset. With control and variation in the middle overs, Ashraf fortifies the spin department, confounding opposition batters and aligning with the team’s strategic vision.

9. Fazal Haq Farooqi: Farooqi, the pace genius, brings a dynamic edge to the pace attack. Armed with pace, swing, and a penchant for troubling batters, Farooqi’s inclusion enhances the team’s strategic options in fast-bowling resources.

10. Naveen Ul Haq:

Naveen, another pace sensation, augments the pace attack with raw pace and seam movement. A wicket-taking force, Naveen adds strategic depth to the bowling lineup, aligning with the team’s overall tactical objectives.

11. Qais Ahmad: Qais, the leg-spin master, steps in to bolster the spin department with strategic finesse. Known for sharp spin and the ability to deceive batters, Ahmad enhances the team’s strategic capabilities, especially in crucial phases of the game.

Also READ: India vs Afghanistan 2024??: Dates, Match Timings, Squads,?? Broadcast & Live Streaming details

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The excitement is building up as the quarter-finals of men’s cricket competition in the 19th Asian Games approach, and cricket enthusiasts in Afghanistan have recently been given a reason to cheer after the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) unveiled its formidable 15-member men’s squad for the marquee event on Wednesday (September 20).

The ‘Afghan Abdalyan’ team announced by ACB is a blend of experience and promising young talents, all ready to showcase their cricketing prowess on the grand stage.

Gulbadin Naib to lead the charge

Leading the charge for the Afghan Abdalyan squad is none other than the veteran all-rounder Gulbadin Naib. With a wealth of experience under his belt, Gulbadin had shouldered leadership responsibilities before when he captained the senior men’s team. He boasts an impressive international record, having represented Afghanistan in 79 ODIs and 59 T20Is. He was even part of Afghanistan’s recent Asia Cup 2023 campaign.

A squad with a mix of experience and emerging talent

While Gulbadin takes up the captaincy, the squad also boasts a lineup of players with international experience. Mohammad Shahzad, Karim Jannat, Sediqullah Atal, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Qais Ahmad, and Afsar Zazai are among the players who have represented Afghanistan at the highest level. Their experience will undoubt?edly be a valuable asset to t?he team.

Also READ: BCCI announces major change in Asian Games squad; star India pacer ruled out due?? to injury

However, the Afghan Abdalyan squad is not just about experience as it also includes emerging talents. Noor Ali Zadran, Zubaid Akbari, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Sayed Ahmad Shirzad, and Shahidullah Kamal are some of the promising young cricketers who recently featured in the ACC Men’s Emerging Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka for Afghanistan. Their inc??lusion adds a layer of excitement?? and potential to the squad.

The road ahead for Afghanistan in the 19th Asian Games

The Asian Games cricket competition is slated to be an intense affair. As per the tournament’s rules, Afghan Abdalyan will enter the competition from the quarter-finals stage, which is set to kick off on October 3-4, followed by the semi-finals on October 6, and the grand finale on October 7 in Hangzhou, China.

It’s important to note that the Asian Games has hosted cricket competitions twice in the past, and Afghanistan clinched the runner-up position on both occasions.

Afghanistan’s squad for the 19th Asian Games

Gulbadin Naib (c), Mohammad Shahzad (vc/wk), Sediqullah Atal, Zubdaid Akbari, Noor Ali Zadran, Shahidullah Kamal, Af??sar Zazai, Wafiullah Tarakhil, Karim Jannat, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Nijat Masoud, Sayed Ahmad Shirzad, Qais Ahmad and Zahir ??Khan.

Reserves: Nangyal Kharo??ti, Mohammad Ibrahim and Allah Noor Nasiri.

Also READ: Shahid Afridi pens an emotional note for daughter Ansha after her wedding with Shaheen Shah A?fridi; Umar Gu??l reacts

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During the eleventh match of the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) at Bellerive Oval, Hobart Hurricanes 19-year-old leg-spi?nner Qais Ahmad bowled a fast bouncer to Melbourne Renegades ?star batsman Shaun Marsh.

It all happened on the second delivery of the ninth over when Ahmad stunned one and all with a 121.6 kph bouncer. Other than Marsh, Hurricanes wicket-??keeper Ben McDermott was also left stunned as he ended up missing the ball altogether.

Qais Ahmad surprised everyone with this … but did he give the keeper the secret signal!? 🤔🤔

Watch live on Fox and Kayo: //t.co/pvCdqeib22 pic.twitter.com/Fh2SONOpEI

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 24, 2019

Meanwhile, Renegades wer??e bowled out for 147 runs?? in 19.1 overs; James Faulkner, Nathan Ellis and Riley Meredith contributing with three wickets each for the hosts.

McDermott led Hurricanes from the front with a 74-run stand for the third wicket with D’Arcy Short. After Short was dismissed for 60, Miller joined McDermott to see Hurricanes home. McDermott completed his half-century off 48 balls, while Miller finished with a 15-ball 25, including a huge six that went out of the park.

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The West Indies power-hitter Andre Russell was left stunned by an unexpected and perfectly-di??rected bouncer bowled by the Afghan leg-spinner Qais Ahmad in the ongoing Abu Dhabi T10 League on Wednesday??.

Russell had only faced a couple of deliveries as Northern Warriors were chasing Bangla Tigers’ score of 102-6 when Ahmad sent down some sweet chin music Shawn Michaels would be proud of.

After completing his standard run-up, the 19-year-old spinner banged in a short ball and it was like a heat-seeking missile targeted at Russell’s head.

One of the world’s best short-form batters had no choice but to dive for cover, before looking back at Ahmad in pure disbelief. Dre Russ immediately signalled for a helmet.

“Oh..Wow! Wow! Where has that come from?” a commentator said.

“Well, now he wants his lid (helmet), he’s asked for his lid now,” added another.

How’s this for a variation? pic.twitter.com/QPakKZRuPM

— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) November 20, 2019

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=6W4tDfbytKc&feature=youtu.be

Russell recovered to top score with a 25-ball 41 but was ??the only Warriors to clear the boundary as they finished six runs short on 96 for 6.

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