Gulbadin Naib is an international cricketer from Afghanistan and is a batting all-rounder. He is a right-handed batsman and right arm medium fast bowler.
Gulbadin Naib was an amateur bodybuilder before he picked up a cricket bat. That raw strength was quickly given the big screen. Naib’s rise from the dusty ground of Logar province to commanding the Afghanistan team at the 2019 World Cup epitomises the amazing development of his country in world cricket. He overcame poverty, went through tough times at home and was cut from the team early but emerged as an extremely reliable all-rounder for the game in Afghanistan. Gulbadin Naib will have to be a fan’s favourite with his muscular build, laser quick pace and fearless batting, and his story is testimony to the fact that no glamour can beat grit.
He is a valuable player for Afghanistan cricket with his power bat, good bowling and leadership qualities.
This article will provide complete information about Gulbadin Naib.

Who is Gulbadin Naib?
Gulbadin Naib is a professional Afghan cricketer, an all-rounder (right hander) and right arm fast-medium bowler. He was born in Puli Alam, Logar province, Afghanistan on 4 June 1991 and made his ODI debut in 2011. He had become a sensation in April 2019 when Afghanistan named him for the ODI captain of the 2019 Cricket World Cup. His best matches include leading Afghanistan to a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Games and when he has given his all on the field, including half-centuries and turn the match situations in international cricket.
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Gulbadin Naib |
| Date of Birth | June 4, 1991 |
| Age | 35 Years (As of 2026) |
| Birth Place | Logar, Afghanistan |
| Nationality | Afghan |
| Profession | Cricketer |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| Bowling Style | Right-Arm Medium-Fast |
| Role | Batting All-Rounder |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| ODI Debut | 2011 |
| T20I Debut | 2012 |
| ODI Captaincy | 2019 |
| IPL Team | Delhi Capitals |
| Current Team | Afghanistan |
Gulbadin Naib Age
Gulbadin Naib was born on June 4, 1991. As of 2026, he is 35 years old.
| Age Details | Information |
| Date of Birth | June 4, 1991 |
| Age | 35 Years |
| Birthplace | Logar, Afghanistan |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| International Debut Age | 20 Years |
Gulbadin Naib Height, Weight and Physical Status
Gulbadin Naib is about 6 feet 1 inches and his weight is about 80-85 kg – though these numbers are still not officially announced. He has a muscular and athletic physique, which is typical of a bodybuilder. Prior to cricket, Naib worked towards becoming a professional body builder and his idol was Arnold Schwarzenegger.
He continues to undertake an intense fitness regime of weight, strength fitness and fitness drills specific to cricket. His iconic biceps flex after taking wickets is a signature that he has made his own, and one that highlights the sheer power of his physique that he has inherited from most international cricketers.
| Physical Attribute | Details |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | Approx. 85 kg |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Playing Role | All-Rounder |
Early Life and Family Background
Before committing fully to cricket, Naib was famously passionate about bodybuilding and fitness (inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger), which was highlighted in the famous 2010 cricket documentary Out of the Ashes. He lived in a challenging time in the nation’s history. Even under many serious difficulties he remained focussed on his dream of becoming a professional cricketer.
Back in those days, cricket was still a fledgling sport in Afghanistan. Naib, however, did his efforts and availed all opportunities to enhance his skill-based abilities. He found himself in local cricket programs and was promptly noticed by coaches of his ability and desire.
There is little information available about his parents and family, but they were instrumental in his cricket career. He went on to be a success, inspiring many young Afghan cricketers.
| Family Member | Details |
| Father | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Mother | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Siblings | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Birthplace | Logar, Afghanistan |
| Childhood Dream | Professional Cricketer |
Educational Background
There is little information on Gulbadin Naib’s academic studies. He put a lot into cricket from an early age and spent most of his time cultivating his sporting skills.
Gulbadin Naib Personal Life
Gulbadin Naib is not fond of being in public. He doesn’t talk about family or relationships in interviews very often.
As of 2026, there is no publicly confirmed information regarding his marriage or relationship status.
Gulbadin Naib Career
Gulbadin Naib had his first outing for the Afghanistan cricket team back in 2011 and he has since then become one of the most seasoned all-rounders in the team. He had his first ODI match against Canada on 16th August 2011.
Later, he had his T20I first match against Netherlands on 1st March 2012. Afghanistan has never played Test cricket with Gulbadin Naib, so he does not have a Test debut. Throughout the years, he has played key roles either through his runs or wickets in both ODI and T20I forms of cricket.
With his hard-hitting batting, handy medium-pace bowling, as well as his leadership qualities, he has assisted Afghanistan in achieving success in international tournaments. Besides that, he was the captain of Afghanistan in ODIs and also led the team in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.
| Format | Debut Date | Opponent | Status |
| ODI | 16 August 2011 | Canada | Active |
| T20I | 1 March 2012 | Kenya | Active |
| Test | Did Not Debut | — | No Test Career |
Gulbadin Naib Stats
| Format | Matches | Runs | Bat Avg | SR | Wickets | Bowl Avg | Econ | Catches | Run Outs |
| ODI | 89 | 1332 | 19.9 | 75.4 | 74 | 36.2 | 5.57 | 28 | 4 |
| T20I | 85 | 1070 | 20.6 | 122.8 | 35 | 26.4 | 7.96 | 31 | 3 |
| IPL | 2 | 12 | 19.0 | 126.7 | 0 | — | |||
| First-Class | 5 | 313 | 52.2 | 82.6 | 14 | 23.3 | 4.25 | 6 | — |
| List A | 142 | 2527 | 24.3 | 84.6 | 141 | 31.3 | 5.51 | 47 | 6 |
| T20 | 181 | 2639 | 22.4 | 132.8 | 102 | 27.6 | 8.48 | 69 | 4 |
Recent Matches
| Match | Runs | Bowling | Format |
| Amo Region vs Speen Ghar | 18 | 5/65 | List A |
| Amo Region vs Band Region | 34* | 2/43 | List A |
| Amo Region vs Mis Ainak | 15 | 0/55 | List A |
| Amo Region vs Mis Ainak | 70 | 3/49 | List A |
| Amo Region vs Speen Ghar | 1 | 0/17 | List A |
Gulbadin Naib Net Worth
Gulbadin Naib’s net worth ranges from $1.5 million to $3 million. He makes the majority of his earnings from the Afghanistan Cricket Board contract, match fees in the international arena, performance bonuses and T20 world franchise series. The Delhi Capitals’ IPL signing propelled his income to a booming level. Apart from league contracts, Naib has also played for teams like Dubai Capitals and Lumbini Lions, thereby contributing to his overall wealth from sponsorships.
Gulbadin Naib Social Media Profiles
- Instagram- @gulbadin.naib – 269K Followers
- Facebook- @gulbadin.naib – 1.8 M
- Twitter- @GbNaib – 264.1K
Conclusion
In the history of Afghanistan, Gulbadin Naib is one of the most experienced and reputed cricketers. It is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and determination that he has made it from playing at Logar to being an international captain. He has provided valuable runs, important wickets and good leadership to the Afghanistan national team over the years.
He is a former captain of Afghanistan, and made his mark in the ICC tournaments, making important contributions in the franchise cricket and playing around the world. He has proved himself to be an important player in Afghan cricket due to his ability to play under pressure.
At the age of 35, Naib is still playing a crucial role in the success of Afghanistan. He is a valuable player and an inspiration for the future generations of Afghan cricketers, due to his experience, leadership and all-round abilities.
FAQ’S
In 2026, Gulbadin Naib will be 35 years old.
He is an international cricketer for Afghanistan.
He is a hitter and plays as an all rounder.
4. Which IPL Team Gulbadin Naib played for?
He had played for Delhi Capitals in IPL.
His top ODI bowling performance was in 2019 when he claimed 6 wickets for 43 runs against Ireland.
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