Noor Ahmad Lakanwal: Rising Star of Afghan Cricket Shines in IPL 2025 and Beyond

Noor Ahmad Lakanwal, born on January 3, 2005, is a prodigious Afghan cricketer who has taken the cricketing world by storm. At just 20 years old, this left-arm wrist-spinner has already made waves with his international debut in 2022 and a stellar career trajectory, including a spot with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025 auction. Let’s explore Noor Ahmad’s journey, from his early life to his standout performances in T20 leagues and international cricket.

Noor Ahmad Lakanwal bowling in IPL 2025 for
Chennai Super Kings, Afghan cricketer in action.

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Early Life: A Talent Born in Khost

Hailing from Lakan Spinki Bori village in Khost Province, Afghanistan, Noor Ahmad was born as the youngest of eight siblings on January 3, 2005. Growing up in a cricket-loving nation, his talent emerged early, setting the stage for a remarkable career. By his teens, Noor was already turning heads with his unique bowling skills, paving the way for his rise as one of Afghanistan’s brightest prospects.

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Domestic and Franchise Cricket: A Journey of Milestones

Noor Ahmad’s cricketing career kicked off with his first-class debut for Kabul Region on April 29, 2019, in the Ahmad Shah Abdali 4-day Tournament. Later that year, on October 8, he made his T20 debut for Mis Ainak Knights in the Shpageeza Cricket League, showcasing his potential in the shortest format. His List A debut followed on October 14, 2020, for Mis Ainak Region in the Ghazi Amanullah Khan Regional One Day Tournament.

At just 15, Noor’s talent caught global attention when he signed with Melbourne Renegades for the 2020-21 Big Bash League (BBL). In 2021, he served as a net bowler for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL and played for Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). His big IPL break came in February 2022, when Gujarat Titans picked him up in the auction. Fast forward to November 2024, and Noor Ahmad’s IPL 2025 journey began with Chennai Super Kings, cementing his status as a sought-after T20 talent.

Noor also featured for Quetta Gladiators in the 2022 PSL, debuting against Islamabad United on February 12, 2022, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. His stints with St Lucia Zouks (CPL 2020) and various Under-19 World Cup squads (2020 and 2022) further highlight his versatility and growing reputation.

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International Career: Noor Ahmad’s Rise on the Global Stage

Noor Ahmad’s international debut came on June 14, 2022, in a T20I against Zimbabwe, following his inclusion in Afghanistan’s squad in May 2022. His ODI debut followed on November 30, 2022, against Sri Lanka. At 18, he made history as the youngest debutant in the 2023 ODI World Cup, facing Pakistan in Chennai on October 23, 2023—an unforgettable milestone in Noor Ahmad’s World Cup debut story.

In May 2024, Noor earned a spot in Afghanistan’s squad for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, underlining his growing importance to the national team. With his deceptive googlies and sharp spin, he’s quickly becoming a key player in Afghanistan’s bowling arsenal.

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Noor Ahmad in IPL 2025: A New Chapter with CSK

The IPL 2025 auction saw Noor Ahmad join Chennai Super Kings, a move that promises to elevate his career further. After impressing with Gujarat Titans in 2022, his experience and skill make him a valuable asset for CSK. Fans are eager to see how this young Afghan spinner performs alongside IPL veterans in the upcoming season.

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Why Noor Ahmad is Afghanistan’s Next Big Thing

Noor Ahmad’s rapid rise—from a village in Khost to the IPL 2025 spotlight—is a testament to his talent and hard work. At 20, his achievements in the BBL, PSL, CPL, and IPL, combined with his international exploits, make him a standout name in cricket. Whether it’s his IPL 2025 stint with CSK or his World Cup heroics, Noor Ahmad’s stats and performances are trending topics for cricket enthusiasts.

What’s your take on Noor Ahmad’s journey? Drop a comment below and stay tuned for more IPL 2025 updates and cricket insights on our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Noor Ahmad Lakanwal, Afghanistan’s rising cricket star?
   Noor Ahmad Lakanwal is a young Afghan cricketer born in 2005, known for his left-arm wrist-spin and IPL 2025 stint with Chennai Super Kings.
2. When did Noor Ahmad make his international cricket debut?
   Noor Ahmad debuted for Afghanistan in a T20I against Zimbabwe on June 14, 2022, at age 17.
3. What is Noor Ahmad’s role in the IPL 2025 season?
   Noor Ahmad joins Chennai Super Kings as a key spinner for IPL 2025 after being bought in the November 2024 auction.
4. How did Noor Ahmad perform in his ODI World Cup debut?
   Noor made his ODI World Cup debut against Pakistan on October 23, 2023, becoming the youngest debutant at 18.
5. Which T20 leagues has Noor Ahmad played in globally?
   Noor Ahmad has featured in the BBL (Melbourne Renegades), PSL (Karachi Kings, Quetta Gladiators), CPL (St Lucia Zouks), and IPL (Gujarat Titans, CSK).
6. What makes Noor Ahmad a standout Afghan cricketer?
   His deceptive wrist-spin and early international success at a young age make Noor Ahmad a rising star in Afghanistan cricket.
7. Where was Noor Ahmad born and raised?
   Noor Ahmad hails from Lakan Spinki Bori village in Khost Province, Afghanistan, born on January 3, 2005.
8. When did Noor Ahmad join the Gujarat Titans in IPL?
   Noor Ahmad was signed by Gujarat Titans in the February 2022 IPL auction, marking his entry into the league.
9. How young was Noor Ahmad during his Big Bash League debut?
   Noor Ahmad was just 15 when he signed with Melbourne Renegades for the 2020-21 BBL season.
10. Will Noor Ahmad shine in the 2024 T20 World Cup for Afghanistan?
    Named in Afghanistan’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad, Noor Ahmad’s spin could be a game-changer—watch this space!