Afghanistan pacer Naveen ruled out of Asia Cup

Afghanistan have been dealt a major blow in their Asia Cup 2025 campaign, with experienced fast bowler Naveen-ul Haq ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury.

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The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the news through a post on X, stating that the medical team had not cleared the pacer to play.

“Afghanistan's veteran fast bowler, Naveen Ul Haq, has been ruled out of the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025. He is still recovering from a shoulder injury and has not been declared fit by the ACB medical team to participate in the remaining matches. Naveen will continue to undergo intensive treatment and rehabilitation until he is fully fit,” the ACB said.

The setback continues Naveen’s frustrating run on the sidelines. The 24-year-old, who has been a mainstay in Afghanistan's T20 setup, did not feature in the side’s Asia Cup opener against Hong Kong.

He also missed the preparatory tri-series against Pakistan and UAE leading up to the continental tournament.