Afghanistan name strong ICC Men’s U19 World Cup squad
Making their third appearance at the tournament, the Afghans have included a host of exciting names in their mix.
Afghanistan have announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026.
Led by Mahboob Khan, the squad boasts a host of talented players, who have stepped up in recent times to make case for their inclusion.
Afghanistan squad: Mahboob Khan (c), Khalid Ahmadzai, Osman Sadat, Faisal Khan, Uzairullah Niazai, Aziz Mia Khil, Nazif Amiri, Khatir Stanikzai, Nooristani, Abdul Aziz, Salam Khan, Wahid Zadran, Zaitullah Shaheen, Rohullah Arab, Hafieez Zadran
Reserves: Aqil Khan, Fahim Qasemi, Izat Noor
ALL SQUADS NAMED FOR MEN'S U19 WORLD CUP 2026
Afghanistan had secured their spot in the marquee tournament by clinching the Asia Qualifier last year, during which they enjoyed an unbeaten run. They would squeeze past Nepal on Net Run Rate to confirm their qualification.
Later last year, Afghanistan got the better of Nepal at the U19 Asia Cup, with Uzairullah Niazai coming to the fore with a vital knock of 61.
Niazai had also enjoyed a prolific run on the tour of Bangladesh, making 275 runs across four innings.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MEN'S U19 WORLD CUP 2026
Afghanistan also have the firepower in the bowling department with Nooristani Ormazi one to watch out for among the pacers. Meanwhile, Ziatullah Shaheen, Hafieezullah Zadran, and Wahidullah Zadran make up for a versatile spin bowling attack.
Afghanistan are slotted in Group D alongside South Africa, Tanzania, and the West Indies.
Afghanistan's group-stage fixtures at the U19 World Cup:
January 16: v South Africa, Windhoek, 9:30AM
January 18: v West Indies, Windhoek, 9:30AM
January 21: v Tanzania, Windhoek, 9:30AM
*All times are in CAT (Central Africa Time)
