Afghanistan Triumphs Over South Africa in ICC U19 World Cup 2026

Afghanistan's Impressive Victory

In Windhoek, Namibia, on January 16, Afghanistan secured a remarkable victory against South Africa in the ICC U19 World Cup 2026, thanks to stellar half-centuries from Faisal Shinozada, Khalid Ahmadzai, and Uzairullah Niazai, along with a strong bowling performance.

Khalid Ahmadzai opened the innings with a commendable 74 runs off 102 balls, featuring six fours and a six. Uzairullah Niazai contributed significantly, finishing not out on 51 from 51 balls.

Faisal Khan was the standout performer, scoring 81 runs off 95 balls, including ten boundaries, leading Afghanistan to a total of 266/8 in their allotted 50 overs. South Africa's bowling attack saw Bayanda Majola and Corne Botha each take three wickets, with figures of 3/59 and 3/45, respectively.

In reply, Jason Rowles fought valiantly for South Africa, scoring 98 runs off 93 balls, which included nine fours and three sixes. However, South Africa was dismissed for 238 in 47.4 overs, falling short by 28 runs. Abdul Aziz and Khatir Stanikzai each took two wickets, with figures of 2/49 and 2/46.

Meanwhile, Australia, the defending champions, began their campaign successfully by defeating Ireland in their first match. Ireland batted first, managing to score 235/7 in 50 overs, with Robert O'Brien making a significant contribution of 79 runs off 98 balls.

In response, Australia chased down the target with ease, led by Steven Hogan's impressive 115 runs off 111 balls, achieving victory in just 39.4 overs.

In another match, England triumphed over Pakistan by 37 runs. After being restricted to 210 runs in 46.5 overs, England's bowlers excelled, dismissing Pakistan for 173 in 46.3 overs. Caleb Falconer was England's top scorer with 66 runs, while Pakistan's captain Farah Yousaf fought hard with a score of 65 runs.