The Afghanistan Cricket Board’s (ACB) National Selection Committee has finalized the national U19 squad for the upcoming Youth ODI Series against Nepal and the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup Asia Qualifiers, both set to be hosted in Nepal.
The selection follows an intense five-month training and evaluation process, culminating in a final training camp held in Khost province. There, the top 19 players underwent skill enhancement sessions, fitness programs, and match simulations to prepare for the international stage.
The 17-member squad will fly to Nepal later this month to play a three-match Youth ODI series against Nepal from April 3 to 9 at Mulpani Cricket Stadium. The series will serve as preparation for the Asia Qualifiers, scheduled for April 13 to 19, also in Nepal.
Afghanistan’s U19 side, often referred to as the “Future Stars,” will compete in a round-robin tournament against Oman, Hong Kong, the UAE, and hosts Nepal. Only the team finishing at the top of the standings will qualify for the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup 2026, to be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Interim Chief Selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil emphasized the importance of qualification:
“Qualifying for the U19 World Cup is our top priority. We’ve gone through a detailed and competitive selection process, including multiple training phases. The squad has shown excellent discipline and talent, and we believe they’re ready to perform on the international stage.”
Afghanistan U19 Squad:
- Mehboob Khan (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
- Khalid Ahmadzai (Wicketkeeper)
- Uzair Khan
- Faisal Khan
- Barakatullah Ibrahimzai
- Nazeef Amiri
- Aziz Miakhil
- Wahidullah Zadran
- Zaitullah Shaheen
- Hafeez Zadran
- Abdul Aziz Khan
- Nasratullah Nooristani
- Khatir Stanikzai
- Salam Khan
- Izat Noor Shirzad
- Kamal Khan
- Rohullah Arab
The team is expected to bring pride to Afghan cricket fans as it seeks a place on the global U19 stage.
Stay updated on Afghan cricket and international sports—visit www.u.af for daily coverage.
