Appearing almost like a mirror image to Rashid Khan with his action and deception, Noor Ahmad is carving out his own path as a left-arm mystery spinner in the world of cricket. Bursting onto the scene at just 15, Noor made headlines when he was selected for Afghanistan’s U19 World Cup squad in 2020, marking the beginning of a meteoric rise.

His early promise quickly translated into opportunities on the global T20 stage. Noor featured in high-profile franchise leagues, representing St Lucia Kings in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League (BBL), and Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He even spent time with Chennai Super Kings as a net bowler in the 2021 IPL season, gaining valuable experience alongside some of the game’s best.

IPL Breakthrough and Partnership with Rashid

Noor’s big break in the IPL came in 2023, when he was signed by the Gujarat Titans. He made an immediate impact, picking up 16 wickets in his first 13 matches, and formed a formidable spin duo with fellow Afghan superstar Rashid Khan. Their combination of right-arm and left-arm mystery spin proved to be a nightmare for batters, especially in the middle overs.

Stepping Up on the International Stage

Since 2023, Noor Ahmad has become a regular feature in Afghanistan’s national side, participating in major tournaments including the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he showcased his control, variations, and temperament under pressure.

In 2025, Noor continued to rise, being named in Afghanistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy. His consistent performances have helped solidify his spot as a key bowler in Afghanistan’s white-ball setup.

A Hot Commodity in Franchise Cricket

Noor's unique skill set and maturity beyond his years have made him one of the most sought-after bowlers in franchise cricket. This was evident during the IPL 2025 auction, where he was signed by Chennai Super Kings for a staggering INR 10 crore, making him one of the most expensive buys of the season.

The Road Ahead

At just 20 years old, Noor Ahmad is already being regarded as one of the most promising young spinners in world cricket. With the ability to deceive even the best with his subtle variations and fearless attitude, Noor is not just a reflection of Rashid Khan’s legacy — he is writing his own story, one wicket at a time.