Afghanistan U19 vs Sri Lanka U19 – ICC Under19 World Cup Warmup Match Preview

Date: 14 January 2026
Time: 07:30 GMT / 12:30 IST
Venue: Wanderers Cricket Ground, Windhoek
Series: ICC Under19 World Cup Warmup Matches, 2026
Match: Match 15

Match Overview

The ICC Under19 World Cup Warmup Matches continue on 14 January 2026 with a key encounter between Afghanistan U19 and Sri Lanka U19 at the Wanderers Cricket Ground in Windhoek. This match is a crucial preparatory game for both teams ahead of the main tournament, offering them an opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and assess their squad depth.

With recent warmup matches showcasing high-scoring encounters and contrasting performances, this game is expected to be a close contest with both teams aiming to make a strong statement.

Team Form & Recent Performances

Afghanistan U19

Afghanistan's U19 side has been a consistent force in youth cricket, with a blend of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. While they haven't played any warmup matches yet in this series, their previous Under19 World Cup campaigns have seen them post competitive totals and show resilience under pressure.

The team is likely to rely on their spinners, who have historically been a strength for the side in tight matches. Their batters, particularly the middle order, will look to capitalize on the momentum created by the openers.

Sri Lanka U19

Sri Lanka's U19 team has also been in good form, especially in recent international fixtures. However, their performance in the warmup matches has been mixed. They were defeated by Tanzania U19 in a low-scoring game where Ireland were bowled out for 197, and Sri Lanka managed a narrow one-wicket victory.

Sri Lanka will be looking to improve their batting consistency, particularly against quality spin, and their bowling unit will need to maintain tight lines and lines to contain the aggressive Afghan batters.

Key Players to Watch

• Afghanistan U19:

  • Rahmat Shah (Captain) – A seasoned campaigner in youth cricket, Shah is expected to anchor the innings and provide composure in tight situations.
  • Najibullah Zadran – A dynamic lower-order hitter, Zadran has the ability to change the course of the game with a quickfire innings.
  • Mohammad Nabi (Bowler) – A key spinner for Afghanistan, Nabi is likely to be the go-to option in the middle overs.

• Sri Lanka U19:

  • Kaveesh Madushanka (Captain) – A technically sound batsman with the ability to play both aggressively and defensively.
  • Lahiru Sandeepa – A versatile all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
  • Chamika Karunaratne – A fast-medium pacer who can exploit the conditions with his variations.

Pitch & Weather Conditions

The Wanderers Cricket Ground in Windhoek is generally a balanced pitch, offering some assistance to both batters and bowlers. With the weather expected to be clear and dry, the pitch may become a little easier as the game progresses, favoring the batters in the second innings.

Both teams will be well aware of the importance of chasing down a good total or defending it effectively, depending on the toss outcome.

Head-to-Head

In recent Under19 encounters, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have had a competitive rivalry. Afghanistan has had the upper hand in the last two meetings, winning both by margins of 10+ runs, but Sri Lanka's ability to chase down tight targets means the result could go either way.

Prediction

This match promises to be a closely contested affair, with both teams eager to put on a strong performance ahead of the Under19 World Cup. Afghanistan's depth in spin and lower-order firepower could give them the edge, but Sri Lanka's disciplined batting and pace attack could pose a challenge.

Prediction: A close game, with Afghanistan U19 slightly favored to win by a narrow margin.

Final Thoughts

The Afghanistan U19 vs Sri Lanka U19 match is a must-watch for cricket fans, offering a blend of youth, talent, and high stakes. Both teams will look to start their World Cup campaign on a positive note, and this warmup match will be a key indicator of how they plan to approach the tournament.

Cricket fans can expect a thrilling contest with the potential for standout performances from young stars on the rise.

Coverage: Live scores and updates will be available from the Wanderers Cricket Ground, Windhoek, from 07:30 GMT on 14 January 2026.
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