Rowles knock anchors SA in u19 World Cup Opener
A composed 98 off 93 deliveries from Jason Rowles was in vain as the South Africa u19 Men‘s team was bowled out for 238 in a 28-run loss to Afghanistan in their opening match of the ICC u19 Men’s Cricket World Cup at the HP Oval in Windhoek on Friday.
Chasing 267 for victory, Rowles anchored the South African innings, holding it together as wickets fell around him.
Corné Botha, Daniel Bosman, and Lethabo Phahlamohlaka provided late resistance with contributions in the twenties, but the victory target ultimately proved beyond reach.
Earlier, South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first. Afghanistan posted a competitive 266/8 from their 50 overs, built around solid knocks from Faisal Khan (81) and Khalid Ahmadzai (74).
The pair shared a crucial 152-run partnership before Uzairullah Niazai added an unbeaten 51, giving Afghanistan a healthy total to defend.
Botha and Bayanda Majola were the pick of the South African attack, with both claiming three wickets.
Reflecting on his innings, Rowles said the early stages of the run chase required patience and discipline.
“It was quite tough up front, especially after losing a couple of early wickets, but I knew I had to stick in because the wicket got better as the innings went on. I felt I played the spin well and had clear boundary options, but, unfortunately, I couldn’t take the team over the line, which is disappointing.
“We’ve learned a lot from this game, and one big positive is that we showed fight throughout. We’re prepared for the next match and won’t let this loss affect us. We know what we’re capable of in the bigger picture.”
South Africa u19 Squad: ICC u19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026
Muhammad Bulbulia (Captain-KZN Inland), JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Corne Botha (Lions), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (SWD), Michael Kruiskamp (Western Province), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Lethabo Phahlamohlaka (Titans), Jason Rowles (Lions), Ntandoyenkosi Soni (Eastern Province), Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).
SA u19 Men Fixtures: ICC u19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 (15 January – 6 February)
(All matches start at 09:30)
Friday, 16 January – Afghanistan v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek – Afghanistan won by 28 runs.
Monday, 19 January – South Africa v Tanzania, HP Oval, Windhoek
Thursday, 22 January – West Indies v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek
Tuesday, 3 February – First semi-final, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
Wednesday, 4 February – Second semi-final, Harare Sports Club, Harare
Friday, 6 February- Final, Harare Sports Club, Harare
