Rowles' brave knock in vain as SA U19 Men fall short against Afghanistan

Jason Rowles’ composed 98 off 93 deliveries proved in vain as South Africa U19 Men were bowled out for 238, going down by 28 runs 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 things together as wickets fell around him.

Corne Botha, Daniel Bosman and Lethabo Phahlamohlaka provided late resistance with contributions in the twenties but the 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 innings from Faisal Khan (81) and Land Khalid Ahmadzai (74).

The pair shared a crucial 152-run partnership before Uzairullah Niazai added an unbeaten 51, ensuring Afghanistan set a defendable target.

Botha and Bayanda Majola were the pick of the South African attack, each claiming three wickets.

Reflecting on his innings, Rowles said the early stages of the 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

JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Corne Botha (Lions), Muhammad Bulbulia (KZN Inland), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini Tembalethu (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).

Management

Malibongwe Maketa (Head Coach), Blanche Conradie (Team Manager), Imraan Khan (Batting Coach), Paul Adams (Bowling Coach),Thabang Kumalo (Fielding Coach), Tumi Masekela (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Sheenagh Jordaan (Physiotherapist), Kyle Southgate (High-Performance Analyst), Dr Phumi Skosana (Team Doctor), Eugene Oppelt (Performance Psychologist), Alungile Nyakambi (Media Specialist), Lara van der Dussen (Educator), Rosey Lombard (Performance Dietitian – non-travelling).

SA U19 Men Fixtures: ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 (15 January-6 February)

Friday, 16 January, Afghanistan v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek - SA lost 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