Harare witnessed cricketing fireworks as Afghanistan’s Under-19 team scripted a memorable chapter in their World Cup journey, demolishing Ireland by 191 runs to storm into the semi-finals. Faisal Shinoyzada’s unbeaten-like marathon 163 was the highlight, ensuring a semi-final berth alongside Australia from Group 1 on February 4.
The Afghans, batting first on a batting-friendly track, started shakily at 27 for 2. But Shinoyzada steadied the ship, first with Niyazi (26) in a 75-run stand, then unleashing with captain Khan in a 188-run blitz that catapulted them to 315/7 in 50 overs. Shinoyzada’s 142-ball epic featured 19 fours, surpassing all previous Afghan highs in the tournament.
Khan’s 89 off 79 balls added firepower, while Ireland’s Wilson and Riley (3/3) were the standout bowlers alongside Ford’s lone strike.
Ireland’s reply was a disaster from the outset. Toppling to 53/5, their middle order caved in despite Bates (34 with two fours) and Wilson (31 with four boundaries) knitting a 55-run partnership. Abdul Aziz and Aqil Khan’s trio of wickets each, supported by Umarzai and Arab, sealed a comprehensive rout at 124 all out.
With Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa, and hosts Ireland out, Afghanistan’s giant-killing run underscores their rapid evolution. Shinoyzada’s heroics signal big things ahead for Afghan cricket on the world stage.
