Kabul, March 5, 2026 – In a significant shift in leadership, Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) today announced that Ibrahim Zadran will accept over as the captain of the national T20I team, replacing Rashid Khan. The decision, revealed alongside the squads for the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka, marks a new chapter for Afghan cricket as the team prepares for future challenges. This change comes as part of a broader strategic vision from the ACB, following recent appointments within the team management, including a new head coach.
The move to appoint Zadran, who previously served as Rashid Khan’s deputy, signals a deliberate transition in leadership. ACB Chief Selector, Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil, highlighted Rashid Khan’s successful tenure, particularly the team’s semi-final run in the 2024 T20 World Cup, as a period of immense growth. However, the ACB is looking ahead, aiming to build sustained success through this leadership change. The focus on long-term strategic vision underscores the board’s commitment to developing a robust and competitive team.
Squad Changes for Sri Lanka Series
Alongside the captaincy change, several players have been omitted from both the T20I and ODI squads. Left-arm prompt bowler Fazal Haq Farooqi, all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Ishaq, all of whom were part of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad, will not feature in the series against Sri Lanka. However, new faces have been added to bolster the squads. Top-order wicketkeeper-batter Noor Rahman, left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Sharafuddin Ashraf, and left-arm fast bowler Fareed Ahmad have been selected for the T20I squad. Fareed Ahmad Malik also makes a return to the ODI squad.
Bilal Sami, who recently earned Player of the Match recognition for a five-wicket haul in his last ODI appearance, retains his place in the ODI squad and has also been added to the T20I reserves. Nangyal Kharoti and Ijaz Ahmadzai will join Sami as reserves for the T20I series, while Bashir Ahmad, Mohammad Saleem Safi, and Qais Ahmad will serve as reserves for the ODI team. The inclusion of these players demonstrates the ACB’s commitment to providing opportunities for emerging talent and strengthening the depth of the national team.
Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi Earns Maiden ODI Call-Up
Fast bowler Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi has received his first call-up to the ODI team, marking a significant milestone in his career. This selection provides Sharifi with a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage. The ACB is clearly looking to inject fresh energy and talent into the ODI setup, and Sharifi’s inclusion reflects that strategy.
Sulimankhil emphasized the importance of strategic planning, stating, “In alignment with the ACB’s long-term strategic vision and following recent changes in our Team Management, including the appointment of a new head coach, we have made the thoughtful decision to transition the leadership within the T20I setup.” This statement underscores the ACB’s proactive approach to team development and its commitment to building a sustainable pathway to success.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board finalized the squads for the white-ball series against Sri Lanka on March 5, 2026, according to an official announcement. The ACB’s announcement detailed the changes and highlighted the board’s vision for the future of Afghan cricket. Arian News also reported on the squad selections and the captaincy change.
As Afghanistan prepares to face Sri Lanka, the focus will be on integrating the new players and building a cohesive team under the leadership of Ibrahim Zadran. The series presents a crucial opportunity for Afghanistan to test its strengths and refine its strategies as it looks ahead to future international competitions. The ACB is hoping the series in the UAE can proceed as scheduled, and is closely monitoring the conflict in West Asia.
What impact will Ibrahim Zadran’s leadership have on the Afghan T20I team? Only time will tell, but the ACB is confident that this change will usher in a new era of success for Afghan cricket. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow cricket fans.
