Noor Ahmad Lakanwal, born on 3 January 2005, hails from the small and humble town of Khost in Afghanistan. Growing up in a country where cricket has become a symbol of hope and unity, Noor’s passion for the sport began at a very young age. His family was not wealthy, and like many Afghan children, he learned to play cricket in dusty streets using makeshift equipment.
Noor’s journey began with a tennis ball and a burning desire to imitate his heroes like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Even as a child, he would spend hours trying to perfect his spin variations. His parents noticed his exceptional dedication and supported him, despite limited resources. He joined a local cricket academy where his unique left-arm wrist-spin bowling style immediately caught attention. Coaches were astonished by his ability to turn the ball both ways with remarkable control for his age.
By the time Noor was just 13, he was already playing competitive cricket at regional levels. His smooth action, fearless attitude, and natural ability to deceive batsmen made him a rare talent — someone destined to rise beyond borders.
Domestic and Youth Career
Noor’s professional journey took off when he made his first-class debut for the Kabul Region in the Ahmad Shah Abdali 4-Day Tournament in April 2019. He was just 14 years old — one of the youngest players to ever play at that level in Afghanistan’s domestic circuit.
Later the same year, he made his T20 debut for the Mis Ainak Knights in the Shpageeza Cricket League. Despite his age, he bowled with the confidence of a seasoned professional, troubling even the most experienced batsmen with his pace variations and flighted deliveries.
His outstanding performances soon earned him a spot in the Afghanistan Under-19 team for the 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup. Playing against strong teams like India, Pakistan, and South Africa, Noor showcased his ability to perform under pressure. Scouts and analysts across the world started to notice that Afghanistan had found another world-class spinner in the making.
Rise in Franchise Cricket
Noor’s talent did not stay confined to domestic cricket for long. His unique bowling style made him one of the most sought-after young players in franchise cricket. He was picked up by the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League (Australia) and the Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Playing alongside top international stars gave him valuable exposure and helped him mature as a cricketer.
In 2022, Noor Ahmad was signed by Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under the mentorship of players like Rashid Khan and coach Ashish Nehra, Noor refined his bowling even further. His breakthrough season came in IPL 2023, where he became one of the standout young spinners. Bowling in crucial overs, he dismissed key players with his accurate googlies and deceptive pace changes. Fans admired his calmness, intelligence, and fearless spirit — qualities that made him a match-winner for Gujarat Titans.
International Career
Noor Ahmad’s dream of representing his country came true when he made his T20 International debut for Afghanistan on 14 June 2022 against Zimbabwe. At just 17 years old, he showcased exceptional confidence and discipline. Later that year, he made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka, further cementing his place as one of Afghanistan’s most promising young cricketers.
Since then, Noor has become a key part of Afghanistan’s spin attack, forming a deadly trio with Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. His performances in international cricket have earned him praise from around the world, with many cricket experts calling him the “next big thing” in spin bowling.
In major ICC tournaments, Noor has displayed composure beyond his years, often bowling in powerplays and death overs — roles usually reserved for more experienced players. His control under pressure and sharp cricketing brain make him one of the most reliable bowlers in Afghanistan’s setup.
Playing Style and Strengths
Noor Ahmad is a left-arm wrist spinner (also known as a “chinaman” bowler), a rare and exciting bowling type in modern cricket. His biggest strength lies in his ability to disguise his deliveries. Batsmen often struggle to read him from the hand, which leads to mistakes and false shots.
He combines flight, drift, and speed variation to confuse batsmen. His googly and slider are particularly difficult to pick, and he is not afraid to toss the ball up even when batsmen are attacking. Noor also has a strong temperament — he stays calm under pressure, often smiling even after being hit for a boundary.
Apart from his bowling, Noor is a handy fielder and an improving lower-order batsman. His energy on the field and positive attitude have made him a fan favorite, especially among young cricket enthusiasts in Afghanistan and India.
IPL and Recent Highlights
In IPL 2023, Noor Ahmad took 16 wickets in 13 matches, playing a crucial role in Gujarat Titans’ journey to the finals. His control and variations against world-class batsmen earned him massive respect.
By IPL 2025, Noor had developed into a more complete bowler. His ability to bowl in all phases of the game — powerplay, middle overs, and death overs — made him an asset for any T20 team. He was one of the most discussed young players in franchise auctions, with multiple teams showing interest in his services.
Cricket fans have often compared Noor’s calmness to that of Rashid Khan and his flighted deception to classic spinners of the past. His maturity at such a young age continues to amaze commentators and former cricketers.
Personal Life and Character
Despite his rising fame, Noor Ahmad remains humble and grounded. He credits his family for his success, especially his father, who encouraged him to pursue cricket even when opportunities were scarce. Noor is deeply connected to his roots and often visits his hometown to inspire young children who dream of playing for Afghanistan.
He is fluent in Pashto and Dari, and his interviews reveal a polite, respectful personality with a quiet sense of confidence. Off the field, Noor enjoys spending time with friends, watching cricket videos, and practicing new bowling techniques.
Unlike many young athletes who get overwhelmed by fame, Noor has shown remarkable discipline and focus. His teammates describe him as calm, friendly, and always eager to learn. He shares a strong bond with Rashid Khan, whom he considers both a mentor and a brother.
Noor’s story is an example of how determination, talent, and humility can take someone from a small village in Afghanistan to the biggest cricket stadiums in the world.
Achievements and Records
- Youngest Afghan spinner to debut in multiple T20 leagues worldwide.
- Played in major T20 leagues — IPL, BBL, PSL, and CPL — before turning 20.
- Took 16 wickets in IPL 2023 with an economy under 8.0.
- Represented Afghanistan in both ODI and T20 formats before turning 18.
- Known for dismissing top international players with variations.
Conclusion
Noor Ahmad is more than just a rising star — he represents the future of Afghan cricket. His story is one of passion, resilience, and hard work. From playing cricket in dusty streets to performing on the grand stage of the IPL and international cricket, Noor has shown that dreams do come true when chased with dedication.
With years ahead of him, the young spinner has the potential to become one of the greatest left-arm wrist spinners of his generation — a true inspiration for millions of cricket fans worldwide.
