T20 World Cup history: Top three run-getters for Afghanistan

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is currently underway from February 7 to March 8, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Afghanistan, known for their unpredictable performances and ability to beat stronger teams, have had a challenging start, losing the two games they have played so far against New Zealand and South Africa. Despite the setbacks, they have fought valiantly, showing resilience till the final overs.

Afghanistan are placed in Group D alongside South Africa, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, and Canada. The team is led by the world-class spinner Rashid Khan, while the batting lineup features dynamic players such as Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Gulbadin Naib, and Ibrahim Zadran. Afghanistan had a remarkable run in the T20 World Cup 2024, reaching the semi-finals, and will aim to surpass that performance in this edition.

Also read: T20 World Cup history: Top three wicket-takers for Afghanistan

Here is a look at the top three run-getters for Afghanistan in T20 World Cup history:

Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz is an explosive batter who quickly became a mainstay in the Afghanistan lineup. His journey began with an impressive List A debut in 2017, followed by notable performances in the Shpageeza T20 League. These early displays earned him a place in Afghanistan’s Under-19 World Cup squad in 2018, where he further showcased his talent, particularly in the Under-19 Asia Cup. Gurbaz made his T20I debut in 2019 against Zimbabwe and, after consistent performances, established himself as Afghanistan’s first-choice opener.

He also made history in ODIs by becoming the first Afghan to score a century on debut in 2021. In 2023, he registered his maiden T20I century against the UAE. Notably, he finished as the highest run-scorer in the T20 World Cup 2024. Across 85 T20Is, he has scored 2,250 runs, while in World Cup matches alone, he has amassed 545 runs.

Mohammad Shahzad

Mohammad Shahzad is one of the most entertaining batters in Afghanistan cricket, known for his fearless approach and theatrical celebrations. He is famous for his own version of the helicopter shot and has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, often standing tall against Full Member opposition.

He played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s successive World T20 Qualifier campaigns, helping the team secure four consecutive World T20 berths starting in 2010. Over 73 T20Is, he has scored 2,048 runs, with 402 runs coming in 19 World Cup matches.

Gulbadin Naib

Gulbadin Naib emerged as a promising batting all-rounder through Afghanistan’s age-group cricket. He was the youngest member of the team that won the Division Five tournament in 2008. Despite being dropped early in his career, Naib returned to the national side in 2011 and established himself as a versatile middle-order batter who could contribute with both bat and ball.

His maiden international fifty played a key role in Afghanistan’s first T20I series win over a Full Member nation, against Zimbabwe in 2015. In 27 World Cup matches, he has accumulated 400 runs, often delivering crucial contributions under pressure.

Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026:

Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Mohammad Ishaq Rahimi, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi

Afghanistan schedule for T20 World Cup 2026:

Disclaimer: This Exclusive 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.

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