The competition will feature 24 group-stage matches, with the opening fixture on January 15 between India and the United States in Bulawayo. Australia enters as the defending champions, having defeated India in the 2024 final.
Squad Leadership and Background
Mahboob Khan has been appointed as captain of the Afghanistan Under-19 team. He will lead a promising squad that earned its World Cup spot by winning the Asia Qualifier last year, edging out Nepal on net run rate. Afghanistan will kick off their campaign on January 16 against South Africa in Windhoek, followed by matches against the West Indies on January 18 and Tanzania on January 21, all in Windhoek.
Batting Lineup
Uzairullah Niazai will be a key figure in the batting lineup, coming off impressive performances on the Bangladesh tour where he scored 275 runs in four innings and the Under-19 Asia Cup 2025 with 130 runs in three innings. Other batters providing depth include Khalid Ahmadzai, Osman Sadat, and Aziz Mia Khil.
Bowling Attack
Afghanistan boasts a balanced bowling attack, highlighted by Nooristani Ormazi in pace and a strong spin contingent featuring Ziatullah Shaheen, Hafieezullah Zadran, and Wahidullah Zadran. These young spinners aim to continue Afghanistan’s tradition of producing match-winning spin bowlers. Additional all-round options include Khatir Stanikzai, Abdul Aziz, Salam Khan, Rohullah Arab, and Hafieez Zadran, ensuring flexibility throughout the tournament.
Three players have been named as reserves: Aqil Khan, Fahim Qasemi, and Izat Noor.
Afghanistan Under-19 World Cup 2026 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, Ziatullah Shaheen, Rohullah Arab, Hafieez Zadran
Reserves: Aqil Khan, Fahim Qasemi, Izat Noor
Group-Stage Fixtures:
- Jan 16: Afghanistan vs South Africa, Windhoek
- Jan 18: Afghanistan vs West Indies, Windhoek
- Jan 21: Afghanistan vs Tanzania, Windhoek
With a mix of talented batsmen, skilled spinners, and versatile all-rounders, Afghanistan will be aiming for a strong performance on the global stage.
