Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq ruled out of Asia Cup 2025; replacement announced

Afghanistan suffered a setback ahead of their crucial league fixtures in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, as senior fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has been ruled out of the tournament. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed on Monday that Naveen has not recovered from a shoulder injury and will miss the remaining matches.

The pacer had been under close observation from the medical team but was declared unfit to take further part in the competition. In their official statement, the ACB noted that Naveen will continue his rehabilitation and treatment until he regains full fitness. The board also extended its best wishes to the experienced bowler for a speedy recovery.

Promising pacer to replace Naveen-ul-Haq

To fill the void, the selectors have turned to Abdullah Ahmadzai, a promising fast bowler who was initially included in the reserves. Ahmadzai recently made his international debut and has been elevated to the main squad for the remainder of the tournament.

The ACB expressed confidence in the youngster’s ability to deliver in pressure situations. “We wish Abdullah Ahmadzai all the very best for the matches ahead,” the board stated in its post on X (formerly Twitter). The announcement also highlighted the symbolic transition as Afghanistan continues to back its next generation of pace talent while managing injuries to senior bowlers.

🚨 SQUAD UPDATE 🚨

Afghanistan’s veteran fast bowler, Naveen Ul Haq, has been ruled out of the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025. He is still recovering from a shoulder injury and has not been declared fit by the ACB medical team to participate in the remaining matches. Naveen will… pic.twitter.com/Sz4rJyV6k5

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) September 15, 2025

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Afghanistan’s campaign so far in the multi-team event

Afghanistan began their Asia Cup 2025 journey on a strong note, thrashing Hong Kong by a massive 94-run margin in their opening match. Their batting unit clicked in unison, while the bowlers dominated proceedings to ensure a comprehensive victory.

With momentum on their side, Afghanistan now faces two challenging fixtures. Their next clash will be against Bangladesh on September 16, followed by a high-voltage encounter against Sri Lanka on September 18. Both matches will play a decisive role in shaping their chances of advancing to the Super Four stage.

Naveen’s unavailability will be a big loss for Afghanistan, especially considering his experience in high-pressure games and his ability to deliver effective spells in the death overs. Over the years, he has emerged as one of Afghanistan’s most reliable pacers in the shortest format, known for his accuracy, variations, and composure under pressure.

Also READ: Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai sizzle as Afghanistan thrash Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2025 opener