U-19 World Cup: Afghanistan shock South Africa with memorable 28-run win in campaign opener

Afghanistan Under-19 secured a historic 28-run victory over South Africa Under-19 in their opening Group D match of the 2026 ICC U19 World Cup in Windhoek. Bolstered by half-centuries from Khalid Ahmadzai and Faisal Shinozada, as well as a vital late cameo from Uzairullah Niazai, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 266 for 8. Despite a resilient 98 from South Africa’s Jason Rowles, the Afghan bowlers successfully defended the target, dismissing the hosts for 238 in 47.4 overs.

Afghanistan stun South Africa in U-19 World Cup encounter

After being invited to bat, Afghanistan recovered from the early loss of opener Osman Sadat with a dominant second-wicket partnership. Khalid Ahmadzai played a disciplined anchoring role, scoring 74 off 102 balls, while Faisal Shinozada provided the aggression with a confident 81 off 95 deliveries. Together, they shared a 152-run stand that laid a solid foundation for the innings.

Khalid Ahmadzai, Faisal Shinozada's robust tons in Afghans' win

The Afghan momentum was briefly threatened in the middle overs when a sudden flurry of wickets saw them slip from 183 for 2 to 186 for 5. However, Uzairullah Niazai prevented a full-scale collapse by playing a composed, unbeaten knock of 51 off 51 balls. His sensible strokeplay and aggressive running between the wickets ensured that Afghanistan pushed past the 260-run mark.

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South Africa’s bowling effort was spearheaded by Corne Botha and Buyanda Majola, both of whom claimed three wickets. However, their discipline wavered significantly throughout the innings; the hosts conceded 35 extras, including 20 wides, which ultimately proved costly in a match decided by a relatively narrow margin.

South Africa's patchy chase

South Africa’s pursuit of 267 got off to a disastrous start when Adnaan Lagadien was dismissed in the opening over. The host nation struggled to find their footing as Afghanistan maintained consistent pressure, taking wickets at regular intervals. By the midpoint of the innings, South Africa found themselves in a precarious position at 109 for 4, with their top order unable to establish the necessary momentum for a successful chase.

A glimmer of hope emerged through Jason Rowles, who produced a brilliant counter-attacking performance. His 98-run knock off just 93 deliveries, which included nine boundaries and three sixes, briefly put the pressure back on the Afghan side. While he found minor support from Corne Botha and Lethabo Phahlamohlaka, Afghanistan’s bowlers remained clinical, striking at pivotal moments to ensure no partnership could evolve into a match-winning threat.

The Afghan bowling attack was led by Khatir Stanikzai and Abdul Aziz, who claimed two wickets each, while Nooristani Omarzai and Hafeez Zadran provided essential control during the middle overs. This disciplined collective effort eventually saw South Africa bowled out for 238 with more than two overs to spare. The victory was further aided by Afghanistan’s sharp fielding, which resulted in three crucial run-outs that disrupted the South African chase.

This statement win gives Afghanistan a perfect start to their Group D campaign and highlights their growth as a disciplined unit capable of smart strike rotation and high-intensity fielding.