Kabul, Sept 15 (UNI) Afghanistan fast bowler Naveen Ul Haq has been ruled out of the ongoing T20 Asia Cup 2025 due to a shoulder injury, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced today.
In a statement, the ACB confirmed that Naveen, who was included in Afghanistan’s Asia Cup squad but missed the opening match on fitness grounds, has not recovered sufficiently to take part in the remaining fixtures.
“Naveen is still undergoing rehabilitation for a shoulder problem and has not been cleared by the ACB medical team to play in the tournament,” the board said. “He will return home to continue treatment and recovery.”
The 24-year-old pacer, one of Afghanistan’s most experienced limited-overs bowlers, had been expected to bolster the team’s attack in the Asia Cup but remained on the sidelines during their first game.
To fill the vacancy, the selectors have drafted in young fast bowler Abdullah Ahmadzai from the reserves. Ahmadzai, who recently made his international debut, has been promoted to the main squad and is available for selection in Afghanistan’s upcoming matches.
The ACB wished Naveen a swift return to full fitness and extended best wishes to Ahmadzai for the remainder of the tournament.
Afghanistan, placed in Group B of the Asia Cup 2025, are aiming to strengthen their pace resources as they continue their campaign in the continental event.
