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The T20 World Cup 2024 is set to begin, showcasing the shortest and most dynamic format of cricket. Known for its electrifying pace and high-octane excitement, T20 cricket is often considered a game of young blood, where youthful exuberance and fresh talent shine. Since the inaugural edition in 2007, many young cricketers have left an indelible mark on the tournament. Some of these youngsters have quickly risen to prominence, etching their names in cricket history with stellar performances and unforgettable moments.
The young guns of the T20 world cup
While the T20 World Cup has been a launchpad for many promising careers, it has also seen some young players falter under the intense pressure and scrutiny. However, for those who thrive, the tournament offers a platform to achieve greatness and inspire the next generation. As the world approach the 2024 edition, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates which emerging stars will seize the opportunity to make their mark and join the ranks of the sport’s most celebrated figures.
Also READ: Paul Collingwood predicts the semifinalist of T20 World Cup 2024
From 2007 to 2022: The Youngest Players in T20 World Cup History:
1. Tamim Iqbal (Bangladesh)
- Age at debut: 18 years, 142 days
- Debut World Cup (2007):
- Debut game: Scored 10 runs off 13 balls against West Indies on September 13, 2007.
- Overall performance in 2007: Played 5 matches, scoring 56 runs at an average of 11.20 with a strike rate of 71.79.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Tamim Iqbal retired from T20Is in 2022, so he is not expected to participate in the T20 World Cup 2024.
2. Mohammad Amir (Pakistan)
- Age at debut: 17 years, 55 days
- Debut World Cup (2009):
- Debut game: Took 1 wicket for 31 runs against England on June 7, 2009.
- Overall performance in 2009: Played 7 matches, taking 6 wickets at an average of 29.16 and an economy rate of 7.29.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Mohammad Amir who retired from international cricket in 2020 made a surprise return and have been selected in Pakistan’s 15-members squad to participate in the T20 World Cup 2024.
3. George Dockrell (Ireland)
- Age at debut: 17 years, 282 days
- Debut World Cup (2010):
- Debut game: Took 3 wickets for 16 runs against West Indies on April 30, 2010.
- Overall performance in 2010: Played 2 matches, taking 3 wickets at an average of 16.66 and an economy rate of 4.37.
- T20 World Cup 2024: George Dockrell remains an active part of the Ireland squad and is expected to be part of the T20 World Cup 2024.
4. Pat Cummins (Australia)
- Age at debut: 19 years, 100 days
- Debut World Cup (2012):
- Debut game: Took zero wicket for 29 runs against Ireland on September 19, 2012.
- Overall performance in 2012: Played 6 matches, taking 6 wickets at an average of 32.83 and an economy rate of 8.20.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Pat Cummins, being a key player and leader of Australia in couple of formats, has been named in Australian squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.
5. Sompal Kami (Nepal)
- Age at debut: 18 years, 42 days
- Debut World Cup (2014):
- Debut game: Took 2 wicket for 13 runs against Hong Kong on March 16, 2014.
- Overall performance in 2014: Played 3 matches, taking 4 wickets at an average of 16.50 and an economy rate of 7.33.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Sompal Kami is still active in international cricket and he’s a part of Nepal side for the T20 World Cup 2024.
6. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
- Age at debut: 17 years, 170 days
- Debut World Cup (2016):
- Debut game: Took 2 wickets for 28 runs against Scotland on March 8, 2016.
- Overall performance in 2016: Played 7 matches, taking 11 wickets at an average of 16.63 and an economy rate of 6.53.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Rashid Khan is a crucial player for Afghanistan and is a key member and captain of their squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.
7. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)
- Age at debut: 19 years, 333 days
- Debut World Cup (2021):
- Debut game: Scored 46 runs off 37 balls against Scotland on October 25, 2021.
- Overall performance in 2021: Played 5 matches, scoring 85 runs at an average of 17.00 and a strike rate of 119.71.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Gurbaz remains an important player for Afghanistan and is participating in the T20 World Cup 2024.
8. Aayan Afzal Khan (UAE)
- Age at debut: 16 years, 335 days
- Debut World Cup (2022):
- Debut game: Took 1 wicket for 22 runs against Sri Lanka on October 16, 2022.
- Overall performance in 2022: Played 3 matches, taking 3 wickets at an average of 20.33 and an economy rate of 6.78.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Aayan Afzal Khan won’t be a part of T20 World Cup 2024 as United Arab Emirates (UAE) failed to qualify for this edition after losing to qualifier knockout against Nepal
