In a clear strategic move, Afghanistan chose to bench six key players, including captain Rashid Khan, for their final tri-series match against the UAE in Sharjah on Friday. The decision indicates that the team is more focused on winning the trophy than on a pointless victory, especially with a title match against Pakistan on Sunday.
This game is a classic “dead rubber.” The finalists of the tri-series—Afghanistan and Pakistan, have already been decided, rendering this match inconsequential to the tournament’s outcome. Because of this flexibility, both teams have been able to try out different lineups and approach the match as a rigorous training session.
Who is sitting out for Afghanistan?
Afghanistan’s team management has made a whopping six changes to their playing XI, resting their most vital assets. Some well-known people who are taking a deliberate break are:
- Rashid Khan (Captain and star leg-spinner)
- Mohammad Nabi (Veteran all-rounder)
- Sediqullah Atal (Top-order batter)
- Darwish Rasooli (Middle-order batter)
- AM Ghazanfar (Spinner)
- Fazalhaq Farooqi (Lead fast bowler)
This calculated rest ensures their key players are fresh, fit, and fully prepared for the high-pressure final against a formidable Pakistani side.
Who comes into the Afghan side?
The changes provide a chance for bench strength to prove its mettle.
- The spin department sees the experienced Mujeeb Ur Rahman return to partner Noor Ahmad and Sharafuddin Ashraf.
- All-rounder Gulbadin Naib brings his power-hitting to the middle order.
- Wicketkeeper Mohammad Ishaq earns a recall, playing his first T20I since December 2024.
- Pacers Fareed Ahmad and Abdullah Ahmadzai are brought in to share the seam bowling duties.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: Team India Starts Preparations Ahead of UAE Opener
Who is leading the team?
With Rashid Khan resting, opening batter Ibrahim Zadran has taken on the captaincy. This marks the 10th time he has led Afghanistan, with four of those occasions being against today’s opponent, the UAE.
For the hosts, the stakes are also about preparation. Having lost all three of their games, they are using this match to fine-tune their squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, which begins on September 9. They have included left-arm spinner Simranjeet Singh, who is in their Asia Cup squad but was not originally part of this tri-series team. All-rounders Muhammad Zohaib and Muhammad Farooq also come into the side as the UAE looks to build cohesion.
