Naveen-ul-Haq Returns as Afghanistan Faces India in T20 Series

Fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has made a comeback to the Afghanistan squad following his recovery from a shoulder injury. He is set to participate in the upcoming three-match T20 International series against India. The matches are scheduled to take place on September 13, 15, and 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

This series holds significant importance as it will mark Ibrahim Zadran's first assignment as Afghanistan's permanent T20I captain. He assumes leadership from Rashid Khan. Naveen's return is a major boost to the team's pace attack, especially after his absence from recent bilateral series and the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup due to a stress fracture in his right shoulder.

Afghanistan Cricket Board CEO Naseeb Khan expressed confidence in the squad, stating that the board has made every effort to select a balanced team. He highlighted the pride in hosting a major cricketing nation like India for the first time, emphasizing Afghanistan's progress in cricket. The Afghanistan squad is expected to arrive in India early for a preparatory camp before the series commences.

The series represents a historic moment, being the first men's bilateral T20I series between Afghanistan and India. The two teams have previously competed in a one-off Test and three ODIs in June of this year.