Fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has returned to the Afghanistan squad for the three-match T20I series against India in Delhi following a two-year absence requiring double shoulder surgery.
The 26-year-old last featured in December 2024 before a stress fracture and subsequent labrum repair sidelined him. His inclusion provides newly appointed captain Ibrahim Zadran with a proven specialist in high-pressure overs. The returning pacer bolsters the bowling attack alongside Fazalhaq Farooqi at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Zadran’s side will utilise franchise intelligence.
Overcoming Extensive Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation
Naveen underwent two procedures in England, forcing him to miss the 2026 T20 World Cup. The rehabilitation period placed severe physical restrictions on the fast bowler, who retired from ODIs in 2023 to protect his short-format career.
Speaking to the ICC, Naveen said: “For the first six weeks of rehab in the UK, I had to sit while sleeping.”
He added: “It is lonely. It’s a very tough time for a person, The stress fracture healed itself within eight to ten weeks. But I had a second surgery for labrum repair.”
Restoring Tactical Precision At The Death
Afghanistan lacked his execution late in the innings during their World Cup campaign, prompting a rethink against quality opposition. Watching the tournament proved difficult for the specialist.
“I had the feeling that if I was there for the team, maybe I could have done something different in the death overs,” he said.
The opening T20I fixture begins on September 13.
