As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2023, Afghanistan emerges as a formidable contender among the six participating teams. Scheduled to unfold across the cricketing landscapes of Sri Lanka and Pakistan from August 30 to September 17, this year’s tournament promises an exhilarating clash of cricketing titans.
Afghanistan’s journey in the Asia Cup begins on September 3, 2023, when they take on Bangladesh in a Group Stage match at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. This will set the stage for their second Group Stage encounter against defending champions Sri Lanka at the same venue on September 5.
While Afghanistan’s cricketing prowess has grown remarkably over the past few years, they face a monumental challenge in their match against Sri Lanka, the reigning champions who clinched victory over Pakistan by 23 runs in the previous edition. Overcoming Sri Lanka’s experienced squad in the One Day International (ODI) format is no small feat, and Afghanistan’s journey promises to be a test of their mettle.
Afghanistan’s strengths lie in their exceptional performance in both Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and ODIs. Renowned for their formidable spin attack, spearheaded by the star bowler Rashid Khan, Afghanistan boasts a team that has consistently demonstrated great cricketing acumen.
The tournament venues for Afghanistan include the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the renowned R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
In the Super-Four stage, Afghanistan is set to face challenging encounters against opponents yet to be determined. If they secure the second position in Group B, they will navigate through an intense schedule that includes clashes against formidable teams like India and other qualifiers.
The expected playing eleven for Afghanistan includes Mohammad Nabi (C), Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Ikram Alikhil, Mohammad Shahzad (WK), Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, and Yamin Ahmadzai.
Afghanistan’s matches will be available for live streaming in the country on RTA Sport. For cricket enthusiasts in India, the Star Sports network and Disney+ Hotstar will offer live streaming options to catch all the thrilling action of the Asia Cup 2023.
The Afghanistan squad for the Asia Cup 2023 is expected to feature a lineup consisting of Mohammad Nabi (c), Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Ikram Alikhil, Mohammad Shahzad (wk), Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, and Yamin Ahmadzai.
