T20 World Cup 2024: Afghanistan’s strongest predicted playing XI against Australia

Australia, riding high after their victory over Bangladesh in their previous game, will be eager to secure another win and collect two crucial points in their second Super Eight fixture of 2024 T20 World Cup. The victory would significantly bolster their chances of advancing to the semi-finals.

In stark contrast, Afghanistan find themselves in a slightly precarious position. After suffering a defeat at the hands of India, they are in desperate need of a win to keep their semi-final hopes alive. The team will be relying heavily on their renowned spin attack, spearheaded by Rashid Khan, to deliver a stellar performance and potentially orchestrate an upset against the formidable Australian side.

The history between these two teams in T20 internationals is limited, with only one prior encounter. In that match, Mitchell Marsh’s Australian team claimed victory, setting a precedent they hope to follow. Afghanistan, however, will be motivated to rewrite that narrative and achieve a breakthrough win in this high-stakes game. 

Here is the predicted Afghanistan XI vs Australia 

Openers- Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran

Afghanistan will hope their opening batters can put the Australian team on the defensive. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran have consistently posed a threat to new-ball bowlers with their aggressive batting style. Gurbaz, in particular, brings valuable experience from facing international bowlers in franchise leagues worldwide. 

Middle-order – Najibullah Zadran

The Australian team will look to target Najibullah Zadran, who has been struggling with the bat recently. The veteran batter's lack of form in the last few matches could prove costly for Afghanistan. However, with over 100 matches of experience, Zadran will aim to leverage his expertise and make a significant impact in the crucial game. 

All-rounders – Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, and Rashid Khan

The Afghanistan side boasts five versatile players who excel in both batting and bowling. Despite a tough game against West Indies, Azmatullah Omarzai has showcased his all-round skills in earlier matches while Gulbadin Naib and Mohammad Nabi, two of the most experienced players in the team, can turn the game around at any moment.

Karim Janat, whose stellar performances in franchise cricket speak for themselves, is expected to make a comeback after being dropped in the last match. And, of course, there is no need for an introduction when it comes to Rashid Khan. The Afghan skipper is a complete package, known for his wicket-taking prowess and his ability to deliver powerful finishes with the bat.

Bowlers – Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Naveen-ul-Haq

Noor Ahmad brings a crucial element to the Afghan bowling attack with his variations that can outsmart any batter. Although the left-arm wrist spinner has had a quiet tournament so far, his talent has proven him to be a potential match-winner. Meanwhile, the new-ball pair of Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq has consistently taken wickets and demonstrated excellent control, making the ball talk and keeping the pressure on opposing teams. 

Afghanistan’s Predicted XI vs Australia 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq, Noor Ahmad, and Fazalhaq Farooqi