Afghanistan have announced a strong and promising squad for the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026, which will be held from January 15 to February 6 across Zimbabwe and Namibia. This edition features young talents from around the world, and Afghanistan arrive with momentum after winning the Asia Qualifier and showcasing exceptional form throughout the year.
The Afghan U19 unit will aim to make a deep run in the tournament with a balanced combination of batters, all-rounders, and spinners—continuing the nation’s legacy of producing world-class bowling talent.
Afghanistan U19 World Cup 2026 Squad Overview
Captain
Mahboob Khan has been named captain of the Afghanistan U19 team for the tournament. His leadership qualities and consistent performances make him a dependable figure for this young side.
Full Afghanistan U19 Squad for U19 World Cup 2026
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Uzairullah Niazai, Khalid Ahmadzai, Osman Sadat, Aziz Mia Khil, Nazif Amiri |
| All-rounders | Mahboob Khan (C), Khatir Stanikzai, Abdul Aziz, Salam Khan |
| Spinners | Zaitullah Shaheen, Hafieez Zadran, Wahid Zadran |
| Pacers | Nooristani Ormazi, Rohullah Arab |
| Reserves | Aqil Khan, Fahim Qasemi, Izat Noor |
This squad includes several rising stars who have already delivered impressive performances in regional tournaments and bilateral series.
Like to Know: Bangladesh Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Key Players to Watch
1. Uzairullah Niazai – In-form Batter
- Scored 275 runs in four innings during the Bangladesh tour
- Hit 130 runs in three innings in the U19 Asia Cup 2025
A reliable top-order batter and Afghanistan’s biggest run-scoring hope.
2. Nooristani Ormazi – Pace Threat
A standout fast bowler capable of troubling batters with bounce and swing. He heads Afghanistan’s pace attack.
3. Zaitullah Shaheen – Spin Specialist
A disciplined spinner who brings control in the middle overs and plays a key role in restricting runs.
4. Wahidullah Zadran & Hafieez Zadran – Spin Pair
Both offer wicket-taking options and strengthen Afghanistan’s traditional spin strength.
5. Mahboob Khan – Captain & All-rounder
Leads from the front with both bat and ball, giving the team balance and stability.
Afghanistan U19 Group Stage Fixtures – ICC U19 World Cup 2026
Afghanistan have been placed in Group D and will play all their first-round matches in Windhoek, Namibia.
Afghanistan U19 Match Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (Local) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 16, 2026 | Afghanistan U19 vs South Africa U19 | High Performance Oval, Windhoek | 1:00 PM |
| January 18, 2026 | Afghanistan U19 vs West Indies U19 | High Performance Oval, Windhoek | 1:00 PM |
| January 21, 2026 | Afghanistan U19 vs Tanzania U19 | High Performance Oval, Windhoek | 1:00 PM |
These fixtures are crucial, especially the first and second matches, as South Africa and West Indies are among the strongest youth teams in this cycle.
Group D Teams
- Afghanistan U19
- South Africa U19
- West Indies U19
- Tanzania U19
This group provides Afghanistan a strong opportunity to qualify for the Super Six stage if they maintain consistency.
Read Also: U19 World Cup 2026 Squads: Full List of All Teams
Venue Details for Afghanistan U19 Matches
High Performance Oval, Windhoek (Namibia)
- Known for balanced conditions
- Offers good bounce for pacers early
- Spin comes into play as match progresses
- Familiar conditions for Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack.
Probable Playing XI for Afghanistan U19
| No. | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Uzairullah Niazai | Batter |
| 2 | Khalid Ahmadzai | Batter |
| 3 | Osman Sadat | Batter |
| 4 | Mahboob Khan (C) | All-rounder |
| 5 | Aziz Mia Khil | Batter |
| 6 | Abdul Aziz | All-rounder |
| 7 | Salam Khan | All-rounder |
| 8 | Zaitullah Shaheen | Spinner |
| 9 | Hafieez Zadran | Spinner |
| 10 | Nooristani Ormazi | Fast Bowler |
| 11 | Rohullah Arab | Fast Bowler |
Conclusion
Afghanistan’s U19 squad for the 2026 World Cup reflects the nation’s growing cricketing strength at the junior level. With a sharp bowling lineup, in-form batters, and confident leadership under Mahboob Khan, the team has the potential to make a significant impact in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Their group-stage fixtures provide a competitive path, and strong performances early in the tournament could pave the way for a memorable campaign.
