Nepal’s U-19 cricket team will take on Afghanistan this Saturday in a decisive match of the ICC U-19 World Cup Asia Qualifier. The game will be played in Kathmandu, with both teams undefeated so far. The winner will claim a place in the 2026 ICC U-19 World Cup, which will be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
This much-anticipated match is set to be a thrilling contest. Nepal and Afghanistan have each won their first three games against UAE, Hong Kong, and Oman. This means Saturday’s result will decide who moves forward to the World Cup. If Nepal wins, it will be their second consecutive appearance in the prestigious youth tournament.
History Between Nepal and Afghanistan
The rivalry between Nepal and Afghanistan at the U-19 level has always been intense. Out of 19 previous matches, Nepal has managed to win 7, while Afghanistan holds 12 victories.
In a recent three-match series at Mulpani, Afghanistan edged Nepal with a 2-1 series win. This gave Afghanistan a slight psychological advantage before the current qualifiers began. However, Nepal has made an impressive comeback, staying undefeated in this qualifier.
In the last U-19 World Cup qualifier, Nepal defeated Afghanistan in a must-win match. That victory knocked out the Test-playing Afghan side and sent Nepal to the 2024 World Cup. Now, Afghanistan is determined to turn the tables and secure their ticket to the 2026 edition.
Nepal’s Form and Morale
Despite the past records, Nepal enters this match with strong momentum and the advantage of playing on home soil. The team’s morale is high, and supporters are hopeful for another historic win.
Speaking about the game, head coach Shakti Gauchan said, “Afghanistan is a tough side, but our players have what it takes to beat them.”
The young Nepali side has shown excellent teamwork and individual performances throughout the qualifiers. Victories against UAE, Hong Kong, and Oman have built up confidence among the players and the local fans.
Weather Concerns Loom Large
While the match promises high excitement, there is concern about the weather in Kathmandu. The city has been experiencing frequent rainfall in recent days, raising fears of a washed-out match.
If Saturday’s match cannot be completed, or if it doesn’t reach the point where the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method can be applied, the match will end in a no result. In that scenario, Afghanistan will qualify for the World Cup based on their superior net run rate.
For Nepal, the situation is clear — they need to win the match outright. A draw or incomplete match would end their World Cup hopes.
Match Stakes and What’s at Risk
This qualifier is a crucial moment for both teams. For Nepal, it’s a chance to continue building on their cricketing success and inspire young talent across the country. Making it to the 2026 ICC U-19 World Cup would mark two consecutive appearances for Nepal at this level — a proud achievement.
For Afghanistan, qualifying would reinforce their status as a strong cricketing nation, especially after missing out in the previous edition.
The winner will not just secure qualification but also gain valuable international exposure and the opportunity to compete against the world’s best U-19 teams in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Expert Voices and Official Sources
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has been actively supporting the team, ensuring training facilities and match preparations are up to the mark. In an official statement, CAN encouraged fans to come and support the team, saying, “Your cheers and support make a big difference to our young cricketers.”
International cricket analysts have also weighed in. ESPNcricinfo highlighted this match as one of the key contests in the U-19 qualifier calendar.
