Afghanistan have unveiled their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026, marking their third appearance at the global tournament. Mahboob Khan will captain the side, leading a group of promising young talents who have impressed in recent international and regional competitions.
The Afghans secured their spot in the marquee event after an unbeaten run in the U19 Asia Qualifier last year, edging past Nepal on Net Run Rate to clinch qualification. The momentum continued at the U19 Asia Cup, where Uzairullah Niazai starred with a vital 61-run innings, following a prolific tour of Bangladesh that saw him amass 275 runs across four innings.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack is equally well-rounded, with pacer Nooristani Ormazi expected to spearhead the pace attack, while spinners Ziatullah Shaheen, Hafieezullah Zadran, and Wahidullah Zadran provide versatility and depth. The squad combines experience in regional tournaments with youthful exuberance, making them a side capable of challenging the best at the World Cup.
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
Drawn in Group D alongside South Africa, Tanzania, and the West Indies, Afghanistan will aim to build on their previous performances and make a strong impression on the world stage.
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)
