West Indies Under-19s face Afghanistan Under-19s in a pivotal Group D encounter of the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup at the High Performance Oval, Windhoek on 18th January. The match is scheduled to begin at 07:30 UK time, which converts to 13:00 IST. With both sides targeting qualification from a competitive group, this fixture promises a compelling clash of power, flair, and tactical discipline.
Form Guide
West Indies Under-19s
West Indies Under-19s arrive with their traditional strengths very much intact: explosive batting, athletic fielding, and bowlers capable of striking in short bursts. While consistency has sometimes been an issue, their ability to dominate passages of play makes them dangerous opponents, particularly if they gain early momentum.
- Power-packed batting capable of rapid acceleration.
- Pace bowlers effective with new ball and short spells.
- Need greater discipline through middle overs.
Afghanistan Under-19s
Afghanistan Under-19s continue to earn respect on the global stage through fearless cricket and high-quality spin bowling. Their ability to apply pressure in the middle overs often compensates for a lack of depth compared to traditional powers. Against West Indies, handling pace and bounce will be a key test.
- Spin bowling a major strength in controlling games.
- Batters capable of counter-attacking under pressure.
- Composure against pace remains a key challenge.
Key Players
West Indies Under-19s
- Ackeem Auguste – Powerful top-order batter capable of setting the tone.
- Nathan Sealy – Seam-bowling all-rounder providing balance.
- Ramon Simmonds – Strike bowler relied upon for early breakthroughs.
Afghanistan Under-19s
- Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar – Key spinner tasked with controlling the middle overs.
- Khalid Ahmadzai – Aggressive top-order batter with attacking intent.
- Younis Khan – Seamer expected to test batters with the new ball.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The High Performance Oval in Windhoek generally offers good bounce and carry, favouring seamers early before settling into a surface that allows strokeplay. As the match progresses, spinners who vary pace can still find purchase. Warm, dry conditions are forecast, ensuring a full and uninterrupted contest.
West Indies Under-19s vs Afghanistan Under-19s – Prediction
This Group D contest is likely to be decided by how well Afghanistan’s spinners can contain West Indies’ powerful batting. If Ackeem Auguste and the West Indies top order assert themselves early, they can put Afghanistan under significant pressure. Afghanistan’s hopes rest on the control of Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar and disciplined bowling throughout. With greater power and depth, West Indies Under-19s hold a narrow edge, though Afghanistan are capable of pushing them deep into the contest.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Ackeem Auguste – High-upside batting fantasy option.
- Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar – Wicket-taking spin choice.
- Nathan Sealy – Valuable all-round fantasy pick.
