The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Under-19 World Cup 2025. Mahboob Khan will lead the side that includes a host of talented players, who have stepped up in recent times to make a case for their inclusion.
Afghanistan qualified for the mega event by winning the Asia Qualifier last year. They remained unbeaten throughout the event and secured their spot by finishing ahead of Nepal on Net Run Rate.
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Afghanistan's performance in Under-19 Asia Cup
The team also showed strong form earlier in the year at the Under-19 Asia Cup, where they defeated Nepal. Uzairullah Niazai played a crucial role in that match, scoring an important 61 runs. Niazai continued his good form during the tour of Bangladesh, where he scored 275 runs in four innings.
Afghanistan's bowling attack
Afghanistan’s bowling attack looks promising as well. Fast bowler Nooristani Ormazi is expected to be one of the standout players. In the spin department, Ziatullah Shaheen, Hafieezullah Zadran, and Wahidullah Zadran provide variety and depth.
Afghanistan have been placed in Group D for the tournament, where they will face South Africa, Tanzania, and the West Indies.
Afghanistan's under-19 World Cup schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (CAT) | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 16 | Afghanistan vs South Africa | Windhoek | 9:30 AM | 1:00 PM |
| January 18 | Afghanistan vs West Indies | Windhoek | 9:30 AM | 1:00 PM |
| January 21 | Afghanistan vs Tanzania | Windhoek | 9:30 AM | 1:00 PM |
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