Who is Rehaan Ahtif and Why Did He Replace Dylan Thakrar in Tanzania’s Squad?
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Synopsis
In a significant development for Tanzania’s U19 team, Rehaan Ahtif has replaced Dylan Thakrar, who was injured during a match against South Africa. Discover the implications of this change and how it impacts Tanzania's performance in the U19 World Cup.
Key Takeaways
- Rehaan Ahtif replaces Dylan Thakrar in Tanzania's squad.
- Thakrar was injured in a match against South Africa.
- Tanzania is currently winless in the tournament.
- South Africa set a new record with a total of 397 runs.
- The Event Technical Committee approved Ahtif's replacement.
Dubai, Jan 20 (NationPress) Rehaan Ahtif has stepped in for Dylan Thakrar in Tanzania’s U19 World Cup lineup after Thakrar sustained an injury to his left middle finger during their second Group D match against South Africa, rendering him unable to continue in the tournament. The Event Technical Committee of the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup granted approval for Ahtif’s inclusion in the squad, which is a necessary step before a player can officially join the team.
The Event Technical Committee overseeing the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 consists 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).
Tanzania is still seeking their first victory in the U19 World Cup, having lost their initial two matches against the West Indies and South Africa.
In their recent encounter with South Africa, Tanzania faced a daunting task as the Proteas amassed a record-breaking 397/5, the highest team total in the history of the tournament. This total also marks South Africa's best score in any of their tournaments.
South Africa's achievement was fueled by centuries from Muhammad Bulbulia and Jason Rowles. Their score of 397/5 surpassed their previous U-19 World Cup record of 359/6 set against Namibia in 2012, along with breaking Sri Lanka's record of 391 against Japan earlier in the tournament.
This score ranks as the eighth-highest in U19 World Cup history. Bulbulia scored a brisk 108 off 108 balls, while Rowles remained unbeaten on 125 from 101 balls, hitting ten fours and five sixes. Their partnership of 201 runs for the third wicket overwhelmed the Tanzanian bowlers.
South Africa’s openers set the foundation for this mammoth total, with Jorich van Schalkwyk contributing 47 off 34 balls and his partner Mogamat Lagadien scoring 32. Following Bulbulia's dismissal shortly after reaching his century, South Africa maintained their aggressive approach. Paul James also made a quick contribution of 46 runs from only 18 balls, narrowly missing the 400-run mark by just three runs.
Point of View
I believe that every change in a sports team can significantly impact performance. Rehaan Ahtif's inclusion in the Tanzania U19 World Cup squad reflects the team's resilience and adaptability. While losing a player due to injury is unfortunate, it opens doors for new talent, which is essential for the growth of cricket in Tanzania. We stand with our national team and wish them the best in their upcoming matches.
NationPress
21/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Dylan Thakrar replaced?
Dylan Thakrar was replaced due to an injury to his left middle finger sustained during the match against South Africa.
Who is Rehaan Ahtif?
Rehaan Ahtif is a cricketer who has been selected to replace Dylan Thakrar in Tanzania's U19 World Cup squad.
What is the significance of Ahtif's inclusion?
Ahtif's inclusion provides an opportunity for fresh talent and could potentially strengthen Tanzania's performance in the U19 World Cup.
How has Tanzania performed in the U19 World Cup so far?
Tanzania has lost its first two games against the West Indies and South Africa in the U19 World Cup.
What record did South Africa achieve in their last match?
South Africa scored 397 runs, the highest team total in U19 World Cup history.
