Who is Aqil Khan Obaid? The New Addition to Afghanistan’s U19 Squad
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Synopsis
Afghanistan's U19 cricket team sees a change as Aqil Khan Obaid replaces Hafieezullah Zadran, who is out with a wrist injury. This move comes as the team gears up for its upcoming matches in the U19 World Cup following a strong start. Will this new addition strengthen their chances?
Key Takeaways
- Aqil Khan Obaid replaces Hafieezullah Zadran in Afghanistan’s U19 squad.
- Zadran is sidelined due to a wrist fracture.
- The ICC approved Obaid's addition to the team.
- Afghanistan qualified for the U19 World Cup through the Asia Qualifier.
- The team won their opening match against South Africa.
Windhoek, Jan 18 (NationPress) Right-hand batter Aqil Khan Obaid has stepped in for Hafieezullah Zadran in Afghanistan’s U19 World Cup team after Zadran was sidelined due to a wrist fracture incurred during their opening match against South Africa.
Aqil was previously named one of the three reserve players, joining Fahim Qasemi and Izat Noor, who traveled with the squad when the Mahboob Khan-led 15-member team was announced.
According to a statement from the ICC, “The Event Technical Committee of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 has sanctioned Aqil Khan Obaid as a replacement for Hafieezullah Zadran in the Afghanistan squad. Obaid’s inclusion follows Zadran’s injury, which prevents him from participating further in the tournament.”
“The formal addition of a replacement player requires consent from the Event Technical Committee before they can officially join the squad. The committee is composed of Wasim Khan (Chair and ICC General Manager - Cricket), Sarah Edgar (ICC Senior Manager - Events), Hamilton Masakadza (Zimbabwe Cricket Tournament Director), and Tash Farrant (independent nominee),” the statement elaborated.
Afghanistan secured their position in this prominent tournament by triumphing in the Asia Qualifier last year, remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. They narrowly qualified ahead of Nepal based on Net Run Rate.
Later that year, Afghanistan once again triumphed over Nepal in the U19 Asia Cup, with Uzairullah Niazai making a significant contribution by scoring 61. Niazai continued his strong performance during the Bangladesh tour, accruing 275 runs over four innings.
The U19 World Cup kicked off on January 15, with Afghanistan having played only one match thus far, against the Proteas, which they won by 28 runs. Their next match is against the West Indies on Sunday, followed by a group stage finale against Tanzania on January 21.
Point of View
It is vital to support our athletes in their endeavors. The inclusion of Aqil Khan Obaid presents new opportunities for the Afghanistan U19 team, showcasing our resilience and commitment to excellence in cricket. This strategic adjustment is crucial as we aim for success in the U19 World Cup.
NationPress
18/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Hafieezullah Zadran replaced?
Hafieezullah Zadran was replaced due to a wrist fracture he sustained during the opening match against South Africa.
Who is Aqil Khan Obaid?
Aqil Khan Obaid is a right-hand batter who has been named as a replacement for Hafieezullah Zadran in Afghanistan’s U19 World Cup squad.
What does the ICC say about player replacements?
The ICC states that any player replacement requires approval from the Event Technical Committee before they can be officially added to the squad.
How did Afghanistan qualify for the U19 World Cup?
Afghanistan qualified for the U19 World Cup by winning the Asia Qualifier last year, where they remained unbeaten.
What are Afghanistan's upcoming matches in the U19 World Cup?
Afghanistan's next match is against the West Indies, followed by a group-stage finale against Tanzania on January 21.
