The Afghan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially presented its 15-member squad for the Asian Games 2026, which will be held in the city of Nagoya, Japan. The tournament is scheduled from September 24 to October 3, 2026.
ACB management announced this through its social media channels. Darvesh Rasuli was appointed as the captain of the team, and Ishak Rahimi was named as the wicketkeeper. The squad also includes players such as Najibullah Zadran, Karim Jannat, and Nangeyalia Haroti.
Most of the players in the squad are young athletes who demonstrated outstanding results during the 11th season of the Shapaghij Cricket League 2026. Mohammad Akram, a top-order batsman, received recognition for his brilliant performance in this league, scoring 339 runs in 8 matches, including one century and two half-centuries.
Versatile player Ismat Alam was also included in the team, selected as the 'Player of the Tournament' for his impressive play. In the league, Ismat Alam earned 294 runs and took 9 wickets. Now, the Afghan team is expected to deliver a strong performance from these young talents at the Asian Games.
The Afghan national team intends to make its mark at the Asian Games, aiming to win a medal. Since cricket has been re-included in the Asian Games program, high competition is anticipated among the teams.
The full list of 15 players includes: Darwish Rasuli (Captain), Ishak Rahimi (Wicketkeeper), Hasan Isahil, Mohammad Akram, Imran Mir, Khalid Tanival, Faisal Shinojada, Najib Zadran, Farmanullah Safi, Karim Jannat, Ismat Alam, Nangeyalia Haroti, Arrab Gul, Faridoun Daudzai, and Abdullah Ahmadzai.