Kathmandu, Nepal — Heavy rain delayed the start of a critical under-19 World Cup qualifying match between Afghanistan and Nepal on Saturday, postponing the toss and kickoff at the Mulpani Cricket Stadium in Kathmandu.
The match, scheduled to begin at 8:15 a.m. Kabul time, is one of the key fixtures in the Asian qualifying tournament, where both teams have advanced undefeated. The winner of the match will secure a place at the ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup in 2026.
Afghanistan’s under-19 team, known as the Future Stars, has delivered a strong performance so far, defeating the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong and Oman in matches played on April 13, 14 and 16. Fast bowlers and middle-order batsmen, in particular, have earned praise for their resilience under pressure.
The match is seen as vital for both teams, with a World Cup berth at stake.
