The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 Event Technical Committee has approved Abdul Qadir as a replacement for Shayan in Pakistan’s squad.
Shayan was ruled out after sustaining a nasal bone fracture during a team training session. Following his injury, the committee officially cleared Qadir to join the squad.
The replacement was confirmed under the Event Technical Committee’s regulations, which require approval before any player can officially join the squad. The committee includes Wasim Khan (Chair & ICC General Manager – Cricket), Sarah Edgar (ICC Senior Manager – Events), Hamilton Masakadza (Zimbabwe Cricket Tournament Director), and Tash Farrant (independent nominee).
Abdul Qadir replaces Shayan just ahead of Pakistan’s critical Super Six clash against arch-rivals India. The match is set for Sunday, February 1, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, with the first ball scheduled at 9:30 am local time.
Pakistan had previously defeated India by 191 runs in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup final at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai. Sameer Minhas scored 172 runs while fast bowler Ali Raza claimed four wickets in that encounter.
Currently, Pakistan sits third in Group 2 of the Super Six stage with four points. A strong victory against India is crucial for the team to secure a semi-final spot. England leads the group with six points and is facing New Zealand at the Queens Sports Club.
The inclusion of Qadir strengthens Pakistan’s squad after Shayan’s unfortunate injury. Team management expressed confidence that the young all-rounder will fill the gap effectively and help the team maintain its winning momentum.
With Abdul Qadir officially replacing Shayan, fans and cricket experts are closely watching Pakistan’s strategy for the high-stakes clash against India.
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