Afghanistan has revealed its 15-member squad for the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, led by Mahboob Khan. The team includes talented players who secured their spot in the tournament by winning the Asia Qualifier last year, remaining unbeaten and edging past Nepal on net run rate for qualification. Uzairullah Niazai stood out with a crucial 61-run knock against Nepal at the U19 Asia Cup and had a successful tour of Bangladesh, scoring 275 runs in four innings.
Afghanistan’s bowling department boasts talent, with Nooristani Ormazi being a standout among the pacers. Additionally, the team possesses a versatile spin bowling attack featuring Ziatullah Shaheen, Hafieezullah Zadran, and Wahidullah Zadran. Placed in Group D alongside South Africa, Tanzania, and the West Indies, Afghanistan is gearing up for the upcoming tournament in Zimbabwe and Namibia, commencing on January 15 with the final set for February 6.
The Under-19 Cricket World Cup will witness Afghanistan starting their campaign against South Africa on January 16 in Windhoek. Australia, the defending champions, will be looking to defend their title having emerged victorious in the 2024 edition against India in the final, having won the tournament four times. The competition will feature a total of 24 matches during the group stage, with the opening match between India and the United States scheduled for January 15 in Bulawayo.
