The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced the teams for the 10th edition of the Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL), which will take place from July 19 to August 1, 2025, at Kabul Cricket Stadium. Leading the Speenghar Tigers this season is Afghan T20 superstar and spin wizard Rashid Khan, who brings not just skill but vital leadership experience to the side.

The Tigers come into SCL 10 with a balanced side having explosive hitters, seasoned all-rounders, and top-class bowlers. With the bat, Explosive opener Hazratullah Zazai leads the top order, supported by the trusty names of Rahmat Shah, Baheer Shah, and young gun Zubaid Akbari. The middle order, headed by wicketkeeper Ikram Alikhil, appears to be stable. 

Their bowling attack is led by Rashid Khan himself, ably supported by veterans like Dawlat Zadran, Zahir Khan, and Farid Malik. Emerging stars such as Ijaz Ahmadzai and Naseer Maroofkhil provide thrilling pace options, so their attack is suited for all conditions. With a blend of youth and experience, the Tigers appear to be one of the most balanced squads in the competition.

See Also: Afghanistan T20 League: Full Squad and Captain of Bost Defenders for SCL 10

Speenghar Tigers Squad for SCL 10:

• Rashid Khan (c)
• Ikram Alikhil (wk)
• Hazratullah Zazai
• Zubaid Akbari
• Rahmat Shah
• Rahmanullah Zadran
• Baheer Shah
• Shams Karokhil
• Ismat Alam
• Ijaz Ahmadzai
• Yousuf Shah
• Farid Malik
• Ibrahim Sharifi
• Faridoon Dawoodzai
• Dawlat Zadran
• Lutfullah
• Zahir Khan
• Naseer Maroofkhil

Despite stiff competition, the Speenghar Tigers look like serious contenders for the SCL 10 title, with a solid mix of power hitters, experience, and world-class bowling led by Rashid Khan.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced the teams for the 10th edition of the Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL), which will take place from July 19 to August 1, 2025, at Kabul Cricket Stadium. The Bost Defenders, one of the prominent franchises in the league, will be led by Afghan opener Ibrahim Zadran, who will look to guide a squad packed with bowling firepower.

Bost Defenders come into SCL 10 with a strong bowling lineup. Having star spinner Noor Ahmad and left-arm orthodox bowler Bashir Ahmad take care of spin, and pacers Karim Janat, Abdul Rahman, and Azim Zadran spearhead the fast-bowling department, their bowling attack seems invincible. They are also accompanied by experienced campaigners Tariq Stanikzai and Mobin Bakhtyar, providing equilibrium to the bowling attack.

However, the batting is still a concern. while Najib Zadran and Shawkat Zaman show some promise at the top, the lineup lacks proven match-winning players. The top order is not reliable, and the middle order, featuring Mohammad Akram, Allah Noor, and Naveed Obaid, doesn't seem to have the sort of firepower required to break through in pressure situations. Haji Murad, the assigned wicketkeeper, might have to take on a stabilizing role.

See Also: Afghanistan T20 league: Full list of players and captain for Band-e-Amir Dragons for SCL 10

Bost Defenders Squad for SCL 10

• Ibrahim Zadran (c)
  
• Haji Murad (wk)
  
• Mohammad Akram
  
• Naveed Obaid
  
• Bilal Tarin
  
• Najib Zadran
  
• Allah Noor
  
• Mobin Bakhtyar
  
• Tariq Stanikzai
  
• Karim Janat
  
• Shawkat Zaman
  
• Arab Gul
  
• Yama Arab
  
• Abdul Rahman
  
• Bashir Ahmad
  
• Abdullah Tarakhil
  
• Azim Zadran
  
• Noor Ahmad
  

Despite question marks over their batting strength, the Bost Defenders could still mount a serious challenge in SCL 10, thanks to a great mix of spin and pace options that give them the ability to dominate bowling-friendly conditions.

The 10th edition of the Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL), Afghanistan T20 league, will be held between July 19 and August 1, 2025, at the Kabul Cricket Stadium. Among five competing franchises, the Band-e-Amir Dragons, led by experienced top-order batter Hashmatullah Shahidi, are being recognized as one of the strongest teams in the competition.

Band-e-Amir Dragons have a well-balanced squad, with all departments well covered. Their batting is stacked with players like Darwish Rasooli, Sediq Atal, and Asif Musazai, who provide firepower and consistency. star wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Shahzad will not just provide much-needed explosiveness at the top but also much-needed experience behind the stumps.

The bowling unit is no less intimidating. With Nijat Masood and Saleem Safi leading the pace attack and with dynamic spin partners Abdul Hadi and Nangyal Kharoti, they are set to take advantage of the turning Afghan tracks. The all-rounders Gulbadin Naib and Qamar Shams rounded out the attack, while Allah Mohammad, Khalil Ahmad, and Asif Shah all added youth to the side.

See Also: Afghanistan T20 league: Full list of players and captain for Amo Sharks for SCL 10

Band-e-Amir Dragons Squad for SCL 10

• Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)
  
• Mohammad Shahzad (wk)
  
• Sediq Atal
  
• Haroon Khan
  
• Darwish Rasooli
  
• Asif Musazai
  
• Sediqullah Pacha
• Abdul Hadi
  
• Gulbadin Naib
  
• Nangyal Kharoti
  
• Asif Shah
  
• Qamar Shams
  
• Nijat Masood
  
• Saleem Safi
  
• Khalil Ahmad
  
• Lal Baaz
  
• Izhar Naveed
  
• Allah Mohammad
  

With every base covered—from top-order stability to dynamic middle-order hitters, quality seamers, and one of the tournament’s most potent spin attacks in Abdul Hadi and Nangyal Kharoti—Band-e-Amir Dragons are arguably one of the best teams in SCL 10 and genuine contenders for the title.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced the teams for the 10th edition of the Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL), which will take place from July 19 to August 1, 2025, at Kabul Cricket Stadium. Among five competing franchises, Amo Sharks will once again aim for supremacy under the leadership of star all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai, who has been appointed captain.

The Amo Sharks have a solid and all-around team this season. Their top and middle order looks promising, with batters Abdul Malik, Imran Mir, and Hassan Eisakhil providing both stability and aggression. Ishaq Rahimi will be the wicketkeeper and adds even more depth to the team lineup. Noor Rahman and Ijaz Mihri are two unknowns, but they could have an X-factor in the batting department.

As for the bowling, it is a great mix of pace bowlers and spin bowlers. The pace unit was led by Fazal Haq Farooqi, Yamin Ahmadzai, and Mohammad Gul, mixing a great combination of experience and youth. Generally, Qais Ahmad will be the spin bowler in key roles, whereas we can assume Sharafuddin is going to play an all-rounder role with bat and ball. Having veteran campaigners like Aftab Alam and Mohammadullah just gives that extra depth in all departments as well.

Amo Sharks squad for SCL 10

• Azmatullah Omarzai (c)
  
• Ishaq Rahimi (wk)
  
• Abdul Malik
  
• Imran Mir
  
• Hassan Eisakhil
  
• Shahid Kamal
  
• Ijaz Mihri
  
• Sami Shinwari
  
• Noor Rahman
  
• Sharafuddin
  
• Qais Ahmad
  
• Mohammadullah
  
• Fazal Haq Farooqi
  
• Yamin Ahmadzai
  
• Mohammad Gul
  
• Aftab Alam
  
• Babar Khan
  
• Abdullah Ahmadzai
  

With a good top- and middle-order core, a decent pace attack, and a blend of youth and experience, the Amo Sharks look well-positioned for a strong campaign in SCL 10.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) officially announced that the 10th edition of the Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL) tournament will start on July 19, 2025, and continue until August 1 at the Kabul Cricket Stadium. This prestigious league, which has become a pillar of Afghan cricket, will again be represented by five competitive franchises from different zones of the country.

Ahead of the tournament, ACB announced the squads and captains for all the franchises. Mis-e-Ainak Knights will be one of the most followed teams this season and have a reputation for having a balanced team and being consistent in previous seasons. The announcement of their squad has created some buzz, especially the appointment of the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz to captain the team.

The team consists of a mix of internationally experienced players and exciting young players and is a great combination of youth and experience. There are some big names like Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman that give the Knights a solid core, while emerging stars like Bilal Sami and Farman Safi bring some energy and promise to the lineup.

See Also: Afghanistan T20 League: Full Squad and Captain of Speenghar Tigers for SCL 10

Mis-e-Ainak Knights squad for SCL 10

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz (c)
  
• Afsar Zazai (wk)
  
• Mohammad Nabi
  
• Mujeeb Ur Rahman
  
• Riaz Hassan
  
• Wafullah Tarakhil
  
• Khalid Taniwal
  
• Nasir Jamal
  
• Emal Shaheen
  
• Sohail Zurmati
  
• Farman Safi
• Zia Akbar
  
• Naveed Zadran
• Sayed Shirzad
  
• Bilal Sami
  
• Zia Sharifi
  
• Khalil Gurbaz
  
• Mohib Hamraz
  

Mis-e-Ainak Knights will start their SCL 10 campaign with a thrilling clash against Spenghar Tigers on July 19 at 2:00 PM in Kabul. Packed with a talented team and momentum, the Knights will be hoping to start off their season on a high note in front of an electric home crowd.

England has made a quick move to strengthen their bowling after a big 336-run defeat to India in the second Test at Edgbaston. With the third Test at Lord’s starting on Thursday, July 10, the England Men's selection panel has added fast bowler Gus Atkinson to the squad. The 27-year-old, who plays for Surrey, is returning after recovering from a hamstring injury he suffered during England’s win over Zimbabwe in May.

Atkinson's return comes after England's bowlers struggled in Birmingham, where India scored a massive 587 runs in the first innings, with Shubman Gill smashing 269. England gave away more than 1000 runs across two innings, and skipper Ben Stokes admitted it was disappointing. "At 200/5 we were happy," said Stokes. "But we just weren’t able to blast them open. They ended up getting a big first innings total after us having a good start."

Gus Atkinson adds pace to the attack and has done well in domestic cricket, taking 55 wickets in just 12 matches at an average of 22.30, with best figures of 7/45. His inclusion also raises the possibility of him bowling alongside Jofra Archer, who trained with the squad in Birmingham. Archer is being monitored closely as he prepares for a possible return to Test cricket after nearly four years out with injuries.

England Focused on Boosting Bowling for Lord’s Test

With the series tied 1-1, England are hoping to bounce back strongly at Lord’s. They may rest Brydon Carse or Josh Tongue, who have bowled a lot in the first two Tests, as they aim to refresh the bowling attack. Atkinson’s pace and Archer’s return could help the team put up a stronger fight.

See Also: ENG vs IND: 'He Is the Luckiest to Have So Many Caps' – Former England skipper slams Zak Crawley, urges him to learn from Shubman Gill

The squad changes show England’s urgency to find the right balance and regain control of the series at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

England squad for the third Test vs. India:
Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Ben Stokes (c), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir, Jofra Archer, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, and Sam Cook.

England’s squad for the 3rd Test is out! ⚔

Pace boost incoming! #GusAtkinson has been named in England’s 3rd Test squad as they look to strike back hard at Lord's#ENGvIND 👉 3rd TEST starts THU, JULY 10, 2:30 PM streaming on JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/oPiKDifS2j

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 7, 2025

Sri Lanka has named a 16-player squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, scheduled to be played on July 2, 5, and 8. The series will begin in Colombo with the first two matches at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, while the third and final ODI will be held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

Charith Asalanka, who has emerged as a key figure in Sri Lankan cricket since being appointed captain last year, will continue to lead the side in the 50-over format. His leadership at home will be crucial as Sri Lanka looks to build momentum. One of the most in-form players, Pathum Nissanka, who has already notched back-to-back centuries in the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh, is expected to carry his excellent form into the ODIs.

The squad sees the return of several experienced campaigners, such as Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana, all of whom are set to play key roles. Milan Rathnayake, who was ruled out of the second Test due to injury, has also been named in the ODI squad, although his availability will depend on fitness clearance. The ODI series will be followed by a T20I series between the two sides.

Asalanka to lead as Nissanka eyes more runs

Charith Asalanka’s presence brings continuity in leadership, while the inclusion of in-form players like Nissanka adds firepower to Sri Lanka’s top order. Nissanka, with his recent red-ball exploits, will be keen to dominate in the white-ball format as well. With a good blend of youth and experience, the hosts will look to take full advantage of home conditions against a competitive Bangladesh side.

Bangladesh, on their part, has already announced the return of a star batter and some senior players for the ODI series, raising the stakes for this clash. The upcoming series will not only serve as a continuation of the ongoing rivalry but also as a key preparation platform for future white-ball assignments.

See Also: New Zealand announce squad for T20 tri-series aganist Zimbabwe and South Africa 

Sri Lanka ODI squad vs. Bangladesh:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake*, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando, and Eshan Malinga.
(Subject to fitness)

New Zealand has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I tri-series against South Africa and Zimbabwe, marking the start of their preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. One notable absence is former captain Kane Williamson, who has made himself unavailable due to commitments with Middlesex in the County Championship and the London Spirit in The Hundred. This decision opens the door for younger players to step up in his absence.

The tri-series will serve as the first major international assignment for Rob Walter, New Zealand's newly appointed head coach. Walter stressed the significance of the tour, especially with the World Cup approaching. “I think we’ve got a really strong squad for this tour, and I’m looking forward to getting the team together and getting into the work. With the T20 World Cup around the corner, all of our upcoming series are critically important to our buildup. This series gives us the opportunity to test the breadth of our squad, explore different players, and potentially different combinations against some quality opposition,” Walter said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

A few regulars are missing from the tour. Lockie Ferguson has been rested, Ben Sears is out with a side strain, and Kyle Jamieson is unavailable due to personal reasons as he awaits the birth of his child. Devon Conway and Mitch Hay are also not part of the squad. Wicketkeeping duties will be handled by Tim Seifert. The team will be led by Mitchell Santner, while Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra make their return after missing the March series against Pakistan due to IPL 2025 commitments. Pacer Adam Milne also returns for the first time since November.

Walter banks on experience and new faces

Matt Henry, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury since the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, is back in the squad and will be eager to make an impact. Another exciting inclusion is 23-year-old uncapped batter Bevon Jacobs, who retains his place after touring with the side in Sri Lanka and is expected to make his debut during the series. “Adam’s a really skilled T20 bowler; he’s particularly proficient with the ball up front and brings that extra pace and bounce. With the likes of Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, and Kyle Jamieson out, it’s great to be able to lean on an experienced head in Adam,” Walter added.

Welcome back Bevon Jacobs & Adam Milne 🤝 Full story | https://t.co/1jOONKyaso #CricketNation 📷 = @PhotosportNZ pic.twitter.com/33CPm3uT0K

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 26, 2025

See Also: WI vs AUS: West Indies coach meets match referee Javagal Srinath over umpiring controversy in ongoing first Test between West Indies and Australia

This squad gives New Zealand an ideal chance to try new combinations and strengthen their bench strength ahead of the global tournament. With a good blend of experience and young talent, the BlackCaps will aim to fine-tune their plans under their new coach and captain.

New Zealand T20I squad for Zimbabwe and South Africa T20 Tri-Series 2025:
Mitchell Santner (C), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, and Ish Sodhi.

Former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed is all set to don the gloves and lead the Pakistan Champions in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL), scheduled in the UK from July 18 to August 2. The wicketkeeper-batter, still active in international cricket, announced his arrival via a social media post, with the official Pakistan Champions account confirming his inclusion. At 37, Sarfaraz brings not just his skill behind the stumps but also the leadership that once guided Pakistan to Champions Trophy glory in 2017 and won 11 consecutive T20 series, a valuable asset for Season 2.

In the first season under Younis Khan, the Pakistan Champions lost only two matches and stormed into the final, narrowly missing out to India in a dramatic chase where India successfully reached the target of 157 with five wickets in hand and five balls remaining. With Sarfaraz now back in charge, there are greater expectations to be able to deliver a better campaign and finally win the title.

To add to the excitement, Shahid Afridi will return on official captaincy duties with a strong set of legends behind him. South African superstar AB de Villiers will switch colors to lead South Africa Champions, meaning Pakistan will face an old rivalry afresh. The tournament schedule kicks off with England vs. Pakistan at Edgbaston on July 18, while the much-anticipated India vs. Pakistan clash follows on July 20. The action-packed season culminates with semifinals on July 31 and a grand final back at Edgbaston on August 2.

See Also: WCL 2025: India Champions announced their squad for upcoming season

Pakistan Champions Squad – WCL 2025

The Pakistan Champions 2025 WCL team consists of: Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Sharjeel Khan, Wahab Riaz, Asif Ali, Kamran Akmal, Aamer Yamin, Sohail Khan, and Sohail Tanvir

Cricket legend Yuvraj Singh has confirmed his return as captain of the India Champions for the second season of the World Championship of Legends (WCL), set to be held in July in the United Kingdom. Yuvraj, who led the team to victory in the tournament’s inaugural edition, will once again spearhead the squad. This year, he’ll be joined by former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan, who is set to make his WCL debut following his international retirement last year.

Reflecting on his return as captain, Yuvraj said, “I’m eager to represent our nation again at the World Championship of Legends. The memories of our first title win, alongside my teammates, are cherished and unforgettable.” His management last season not only led the team to an exciting victory, it also brought back elements of India's glorious age in ODI cricket, turning the WCL into a memorable experience for fans around the world.

The first season of WCL showcased remarkable performances from Indian cricketing legends such as Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, and the Pathan brothers, proving that they still have a great passion for the game. WCL founder Harshit Tomar spoke about his pride in the platform, stating, “This platform gives senior cricketers a chance to continue inspiring fans. Watching these legends recreate the magic that made them icons is truly fulfilling. Our heroes are our pride, and hosting them with utmost respect and care has always been our goal.”

India Champions Squad—WCL 2025

The India Champions 2025 WCL team consists of: Yuvraj Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Piyush Chawla, Stuart Binny, Varun Aaron, Vinay Kumar, Abhimanyu Mithun, Siddarth Kaul, and Gurkeerat Mann.

See Also: WCL 2025: West Indies Champions announced their squad for upcoming season

Team India Champions are owned by Sumant Bahl, Salman Ahmed, and Jaspal Bahra and are back to Edgbaston on a mission to defend their title. Co-owner Bahl recalls their championship win, saying, “Owning Team India Champions and lifting the inaugural trophy after defeating archrivals Pakistan still feels like a dream. We’re excited for Season 2 and confident that with an even stronger team, we can recreate history.” With India’s best back in the mix, the battle for WCL 2025 supremacy is set to intensify.