HARARE: A breath-taking, match-defining century from Faisal Shinozada propelled Afghanistan to 191-run victory over Ireland in the Super Six stage of the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026 at Harare Sports Club on Friday.
The emphatic win secured Afghanistan’s place in the semi-finals alongside Group 1 leaders Australia.
Captain’s call and a batter’s masterclass
Opting to bat first in the high-stakes encounter, Afghanistan’s decision, made by skipper Mahboob Khan, proved astute as his team posted a formidable 315. The innings, however, began shakily with both openers back in the pavilion by the eighth over at 27/2. From this precarious position, Shinozada anchored a magnificent recovery.
First, he combined with Uzairullah Niazai (26) for a 75-run third-wicket stand to steady the ship. Following Niazai’s departure, Shinozada found an able partner in Captain Mahboob, and together they unleashed a dominant assault. Their colossal 188-run partnership for the fourth wicket dismantled the Irish bowling attack and propelled Afghanistan towards an imposing total.
The architect of victory
Shinozada was finally dismissed for a spectacular 163 off 142 balls, an innings adorned with 18 fours and a six, rightly earning him the Player of the Match award. Captain Mahboob provided excellent support with a fluent 89 from 79 deliveries before falling shortly after.
For Ireland, Oliver Riley and Reuben Wilson claimed three wickets each, but were unable to contain the Afghan onslaught.
Bowlers seal dominant display
Facing a daunting target of 316, Ireland’s chase never gained momentum. Their batting lineup crumbled under pressure, bowled out for a mere 124 in 40.4 overs. Only Marko Bates (34) and Reuben Wilson (31) offered prolonged resistance in a largely subdued effort.
The Afghan bowling attack delivered a clinical performance, with Abdul Aziz and Aqil Khan leading the charge with three wickets apiece. Their disciplined effort was well-supported by Nooristani Omarzai and Roohullah Arab, who claimed a wicket each, ensuring a comprehensive and one-sided victory.
With this result, Afghanistan finishes second in Group 1 with six points, confirming their semi-final berth, while defending champions Australia top the group with eight points.
