Noor Ahmad

Noor Ahmad Lakanwal, popularly known as Noorie, is quickly establishing himself as a force in international cricket with his left-arm unorthodox spin. Born on January 3, 2005, this young Afghan talent has already gained significant experience playing in T20 leagues across the globe.

Early Career and Domestic Debut

At just 15, Noor Ahmad made his first-class debut in April 2019 for the Kabul Region in the Ahmad Shah Abdali 4-Day Tournament, taking four wickets. His prowess on the field led to his T20 debut in October 2019 for Mis Ainak Knights in the Shpageeza Cricket League. Continuing his impressive run, Noor debuted in List A cricket for Amo Region in the 2020 Ghazi Amanullah Khan Regional One Day Tournament.

Breaking Records and T20 League Experiences

In December 2020, Noor signed with the Melbourne Renegades for the Big Bash League, becoming the youngest player to debut in the league against the Hobart Hurricanes. He gained further exposure as a net bowler for Chennai in the 2021 Indian T20 League before joining Karachi Kings for the Pakistan Super League in June 2021.

Entry into the National Setup

Noor’s promising performances earned him a spot in Afghanistan’s ODI squad against Pakistan in July 2021. He continued to build his reputation in December 2021, representing Afghanistan in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in the West Indies and joining Quetta Gladiators for the Pakistan Super League 2022.

Indian T20 League and Continued Success

In 2022, Noor was picked up by Gujarat for INR 30 Lakhs in the Indian T20 League auction. He impressed with 16 wickets during the 2023 season, helping his team reach the finals. His international career took off in May 2022 when he was included in Afghanistan’s T20I squad against Zimbabwe, making his debut on June 14, 2022. Later that year, in November, he debuted in ODI cricket against Sri Lanka.

World Cup Debut and International Recognition

Noor’s consistent performances earned him a spot in Afghanistan’s squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. He broke yet another record as the youngest debutant in World Cup history, making a notable entrance against Pakistan in Chennai.

With continued development and invaluable experience, Noor Ahmad is poised to become a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s bowling attack for years to come.

FAQs about Noor Ahmad

When did Noor Ahmad make his first-class debut?

Noor Ahmad made his first-class debut in April 2019 for the Kabul Region in the Ahmad Shah Abdali 4-Day Tournament.

What record did Noor Ahmad set in the Big Bash League?

Noor Ahmad became the youngest player to debut in the Big Bash League when he played for the Melbourne Renegades in the 2020-21 season.

How did Noor Ahmad perform in the Indian T20 League?

Noor Ahmad picked up 16 wickets for the Gujarat franchise in the 2023 Indian T20 League, playing a crucial role in helping the team reach the finals.

What are Noor Ahmad’s achievements with the Afghanistan national team?

Noor Ahmad made his T20I debut for Afghanistan against Zimbabwe in June 2022 and his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in November 2022. He was also part of the squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

What makes Noor Ahmad a notable player in international cricket?

Noor Ahmad, known for his left-arm unorthodox spin, has set multiple records as a young player, gained experience across major T20 leagues, and has become an integral part of Afghanistan’s national team setup.