Afghanistan announce all-format squads for Bangladesh, Zimbabwe series

Afghanistan have announced their all-format squads for the upcoming international assignments against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, opting to continue resting masterclass spin bowler Rashid Khan from Test cricket.

The Afghan side will first travel to Abu Dhabi to play a one-off Test against Bangladesh from October 9 to 13. According to an Afghanistan Cricket Board release, Rashid and opener Ibrahim Zadran continue to be rested from the longer format based on medical assessments.

Following the red-ball fixture, the team will transition into a one-day international tri-series featuring Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, scheduled from October 17 to 23. ACB chief executive Naseeb Khan highlighted the immense value of this triangular contest as preparation for the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027.

After the ODI tournament, Afghanistan will lock horns with Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series at the Sharjah stadium, with matches slated for October 27, October 29, and November 1. The two nations will then conclude their tour with a two-match Test series in Sharjah.

Rahmat Shah has been named to lead both the Test and ODI squads, while Ibrahim Zadran will captain the T20I side against Zimbabwe. Afghanistan qualified directly for the 2027 World Cup through their rankings, making ongoing bilateral preparations vital for the squad.