Afghanistan’s predicted playing XI for the 1st T20I vs India

Afghanistan’s predicted playing XI for the 1st T20I vs India (Photo By Sam Barnes/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Afghanistan and India are set to lock horns in the first of their three-match T20I series on September 13, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST. Although all three games will be played in India, Afghanistan are the designated hosts for the series.

This will be the first bilateral T20I series between Afghanistan and India hosted by Afghanistan. India have dominated their previous meetings in the shortest format, winning four of their five T20Is against Afghanistan, with one match ending without a result. Their last bilateral series saw India register a 2-0 victory, with the third game in Bengaluru famously going into two Super Overs.

Afghanistan will be hoping to put up a stronger challenge this time around and have several experienced campaigners in their squad. Ibrahim Zadran will lead the side, while the likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai are expected to play key roles.

Here is the predicted Afghanistan XI vs India for 1st T20I:

Top-order: Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c)

Sediqullah Atal and Rahmanullah Gurbaz are likely to open the innings for Afghanistan. Atal has emerged as an exciting option at the top of the order, while Gurbaz brings considerable T20 experience and the ability to score quickly during the powerplay.

Captain Ibrahim Zadran could come in at No. 3 and will be tasked with providing stability to the batting unit. His ability to build an innings could prove valuable if Afghanistan lose an early wicket.

Middle-order: Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi

Darwish Rasooli is expected to occupy the No. 4 spot and will have the responsibility of keeping the innings moving through the middle overs. Azmatullah Omarzai could follow him and provide the side with a crucial all-round option.

Mohammad Nabi’s vast experience makes him another important member of the middle order. Apart from his batting ability, his off-spin could give Afghanistan an additional weapon, particularly against India’s right-handed batters.

Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq

Afghanistan could opt for a spin-heavy bowling attack in Delhi, with Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Mujeeb Ur Rahman forming a formidable trio. Rashid will remain the leader of the attack and Afghanistan’s biggest threat in the middle overs, while Noor has developed into an effective wicket-taking option.

Mujeeb’s variations can make him difficult to attack in the powerplay and middle overs. Meanwhile, Fazalhaq Farooqi is likely to lead the pace attack with the new ball and provide the left-arm angle.

Naveen-ul-Haq could complete the bowling attack with his variations and death-bowling skills. His inclusion in the squad is particularly notable as he is set to return to Afghanistan’s T20I setup after December 2024, when he last featured in the format for the national team.

Afghanistan’s Predicted Playing 11 for 1st T20I vs India:

Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.