The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2024 has unfolded as a spectacle of raw talent, and five remarkable young players have taken center stage, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.
Their outstanding performances during the group stage and Super Six phase have not only propelled their teams but also set the stage for potential record-breaking feats.
Musheer Khan – India
India’s versatile all-rounder, Musheer Khan, has been a revelation in South Africa, showcasing his prowess with both bat and ball. Accumulating an impressive 334 runs at an average of 83.50, Musheer has notched up two centuries in five innings, with a standout performance against New Zealand where he contributed a brilliant 131 from just 126 deliveries.
However, Musheer’s impact is not limited to batting alone; he has also made his mark as a bowler, claiming four crucial wickets at an average of 24.25. His all-round excellence was evident in a Player of the Match performance against New Zealand, where he not only excelled with the bat but also chipped in with two valuable wickets.
Surpassing the previous best run-scorer for India in the U19 World Cup, Shikhar Dhawan, is now within Musheer’s reach. The young talent’s consistent performances hint at a bright future, and fans eagerly anticipate more stellar displays in the knockout stages.
Ubaid Shah – Pakistan
Ubaid Shah, following in the footsteps of his older brother Naseem Shah, has emerged as a promising talent for Pakistan. His stellar performance of 17 wickets at an astonishing average of 10.52 has been a highlight of the tournament. Notably, his recent five-wicket haul against Bangladesh secured Pakistan’s place in the semi-finals.
Ubaid’s ability to generate movement with the new ball and his effectiveness in the death overs make him a valuable asset for Pakistan’s future endeavors. With three more scalps, he has the opportunity to surpass the 19-wicket hauls achieved by compatriots Riaz Afridi and Mushtaq Ahmed in previous editions, aiming for a record-breaking feat.
Kwena Maphaka – South Africa
South Africa’s tall left-arm quick, Kwena Maphaka, has been a standout performer with an exceptional tally of 18 wickets at an average of 9.55. His ability to swing the new ball both ways has posed significant challenges for opposition batters, making him a potent force in the tournament.
Maphaka’s trio of five-wicket hauls has put him in contention to finish as the leading wicket-taker. Additionally, five more wickets will see him surpass Enamul Haque Junior’s record of 22 wickets for the most in a single edition of the U19 World Cup. The 17-year-old sensation is also on the verge of overtaking the all-time wicket record held by Zimbabwe’s Wessly Madhevere, showcasing his potential to leave an enduring legacy.
Hugh Weibgen – Australia
Australia’s Hugh Weibgen has demonstrated his class with the bat, amassing 252 runs at an impressive average of 63. His knack for delivering impactful performances in crucial moments was evident during the Super Six clash against England, where he steadied Australia’s innings and played a pivotal role in securing a match-winning score.
Weibgen’s intelligent knocks and high cricketing IQ make him a crucial player for Australia’s pursuit of a fourth U19 World Cup title. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Weibgen to see if he can continue his stellar form and lead Australia to glory.
Steve Stolk – South Africa
While seven players have surpassed his run tally, Steve Stolk’s impact goes beyond mere numbers. His impressive strike rate of 148.61 sets him apart from his peers, reminiscent of past U19 World Cup stars like Kieran Powell, Finn Allen, and Shubman Gill.
Stolk’s highlight moment came in an explosive innings of 86 from just 37 deliveries against Scotland, where he smashed seven fours and eight massive sixes. His aggressive yet calculated approach has made him a force to be reckoned with, and he stands as a testament to South Africa’s prowess in producing high-quality white-ball batters.
The U19 World Cup 2024 has become a stage for these emerging stars to shine brightly. As the tournament progresses to the knockout stages, cricket enthusiasts can only anticipate more record-breaking performances and witness the rise of these young talents on the international stage.
