Afghanistan’s Under-19 team briefed the media on their World Cup journey as cricket officials praised youth performance and media engagement.
Kabul | By Sara Amiri
Members of Afghanistan’s Under-19 national cricket team addressed the media upon their return to the country, reflecting on their performances and overall experience at the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, an event that continues to shape the future pipeline of Afghan cricket.
During the press conference, players and coaching staff outlined the competitive challenges faced during the tournament, emphasizing the exposure gained at the global level and the importance of international experience in accelerating player development. The discussion highlighted how youth tournaments increasingly serve as critical testing grounds for nations seeking long-term stability and growth in elite cricket.
Afghanistan Cricket Board Chief Executive Officer Mirwais Ashraf also attended the session, commending the young squad for their commitment and competitive spirit on the world stage. He described their performances as a reflection of Afghanistan’s expanding grassroots structure and sustained investment in youth development, despite persistent logistical and institutional pressures facing national sport.
Ashraf further acknowledged the role of Afghan media, thanking journalists for their consistent and comprehensive coverage of national teams across age groups. His remarks underscored the growing interdependence between sports institutions and independent media in building public trust, visibility, and accountability within Afghan cricket.
The U19 team’s return marks not an endpoint, but a transitional phase, as several players are expected to progress toward higher national selection. In a system where youth success often signals broader sporting resilience, the World Cup campaign reinforced Afghanistan’s reputation as a rising force built from the margins upward.