The previous U19 World Cup happened in 2022. It was an entertaining competition with India winning the title in the end. Interestingly, one year later, a few players who were a part of that event might play in the upcoming ODI World Cup. It is a big level up for these youngsters. Some of these players might even be in the preferred playing XI of their respective teams. On that note, here, we take a look at four cricketers who played in the 2022 U19 World Cup and might play in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
1) Dewald Brevis – South Africa
Dewald Brevis has recently earned his spot in the South African T20I and ODI squads. This can only mean that he will be travelling to India for the World Cup. If not as a part of the main squad, Brevis will surely be a part of the reserves. Considered the future of South African cricket, offering him experience at this tender age will be the right approach for the management.
From a cricketing perspective, as well, Brevis playing for South Africa makes sense. He is someone who can bat across various batting spots. Good against spin, the teenager himself can offer a few overs of leg-spin. These reasons make him a good contender for a World Cup spot.
2) Noor Ahmad – Afghanistan
Noor Ahmad is one of the cricketers who played in the 2022 U19 World Cup and might play in the 2023 ODI World Cup. IPL 2023 was the breakthrough year for the young Afghan spinner. He is sure to make it to the Afghan squad for the World Cup.
Having played in India, it would be a mistake if the Afghanisthan do not select him. In fact, there are chances that he will play all the games. Left-arm wrist-spinners are rare in the game. Noor Ahmad is one of the very few in the business. This variety might work for Afghanistan, especially with the likes of Rashid Khan also around. Hence, he is also a part of this list.
3) Matheesha Pathirana – Sri Lanka
Pathirana is one of the brightest and most unorthodox pacers that the game has right now. It is no surprise that he will be a part of the World Cup campaign for Sri Lanka.
While he is already an excellent T20 bowler, there is scope for improvement in the longer formats. Nevertheless, for the death overs alone, Pathirana would be a solid choice for the Sri Lankan squad. Therefore, the CSK cricketer will play in the World Cup.
4) Dunith Wellalage – Sri Lanka
Dunith Wellalage is also one of the cricketers who played in the 2022 U19 World Cup and might play in the 2023 ODI World Cup. One of the rising players in South African cricket is Dunith Wellalage. He already has experience playing for the senior squad.
Although it has been a while since he played an ODI, Sri Lanka might be tempted to bring the youngster to India. While he is a quality left-arm spinner, he can also add some value to the batting department. Hence, it might not be a surprise if he gets selected.
