Early Life and Background
Noor Ahmad, born on January 3, 2005, in Lakan Spinki Bori village, Khost, Afghanistan, is a promising Afghan cricketer. At 19 years old, Noor stands at 5′ 9″ (175 cm) and weighs approximately 65 kg. He is the youngest among seven siblings and grew up in a humble family under the guidance of his father, Mohammad Amir, and mother, Noor Bakht. Despite excelling academically, Noor’s passion for cricket drove him to pursue the sport professionally.
Entry into Cricket
From a young age, Noor displayed an affinity for cricket, playing tape-ball matches with his friends. His elder brother, Noor, convinced their father to support his cricket aspirations despite initial resistance. Inspired by Rashid Khan, Noor decided to emulate his idol, focusing on perfecting his craft in left-arm unorthodox spin bowling.
Domestic Career and League Participation
Noor Ahmad began his professional cricket journey in 2016 with the Herat Under-16 team. Over the years, he has played for multiple domestic and international leagues, including:
- Shpageeza Cricket League (2019)
- Big Bash League (2020-2021 with Melbourne Renegades)
- Indian Premier League (Gujarat Titans, 2023-2024; Chennai Super Kings, 2025)
- Caribbean Premier League (St. Lucia Kings, 2024)
- Pakistan Super League (Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators)
In 2023, Noor made a significant impact with the Gujarat Titans, contributing to their IPL title win by taking two wickets for 17 runs in the final.
International Cricket Career
Noor Ahmad debuted in international cricket in 2022:
- ODI debut: November 30, 2022, against Sri Lanka.
- T20 debut: June 14, 2022, against Zimbabwe.
During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Noor played four matches, securing five wickets with an impressive best of 3/49 against Pakistan. He also participated in the 2024 T20 World Cup, representing Afghanistan in seven matches.
Achievements and Recognitions
Noor Ahmad has achieved several milestones early in his career:
- The youngest player in the 2023 ODI World Cup at 18 years.
- Winning the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) with the St. Lucia Kings.
- Securing a lucrative ₹10 crore contract with Chennai Super Kings in the 2025 IPL auction.
His bowling speed, ranging between 115-120 kph, and unique left-arm unorthodox spin have made him a standout performer.
Personal Interests and Inspirations
Off the field, Noor enjoys activities like archery, basketball, and tennis. His cricketing style is heavily influenced by Rashid Khan, and he often credits his family’s support for his success. Despite his busy schedule, Noor remains connected to his roots and frequently shares moments with his family on social media.
Challenges and Controversies
Noor’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. In 2024, he faced a 12-month ban from the UAE’s International League T20 for not signing a retention notice. However, this setback did not deter his growth, as he continued to shine in other formats and leagues.
Selection for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The Afghanistan Cricket Board recently announced Noor Ahmad’s inclusion in the 15-player squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This selection underscores his growing stature in international cricket.
Key Statistics
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5′ 9″ (175 cm) |
| Bowling Style | Left-arm unorthodox spin |
| Jersey Numbers | #15 (Afghanistan, Gujarat Titans) |
| Domestic Teams | Herat U-16, Mis Ainak Region, Speen Ghar Region |
| Major Leagues | IPL, CPL, PSL, BBL, LPL |
| Top Achievements | 2023 IPL Title, 2024 CPL Trophy |
Legacy and Future Prospects
Noor Ahmad’s journey from a small Afghan village to the international cricketing stage is a testament to his talent and determination. His story inspires countless young cricketers in Afghanistan and beyond. With his inclusion in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Noor is poised to further solidify his legacy.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
