The T20I format is a perfect platform for youngsters to make an early mark in their careers. With a lot of potential and skills, these young bloods can make experienced players sweat with their energetic performances.
And which team doesn’t want such promising players in their squads? These fresh talents might provide an ideal balance for the team.
Some teams have taken punts on youngsters, giving them a run at the biggest stage, like the T20 World Cup.
On that note, here are the top 10 youngest players to feature in T20 World Cup history.
Youngest Players in T20 World Cup
| Player | Age* | Team | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aayan Afzal Khan | 16y 335d | UAE | 2022 |
| Mohammad Amir | 17y 55d | Pakistan | 2009 |
| Rashid Khan | 17y 170d | Afghanistan | 2016 |
| Ahmed Shehzad | 17y 196d | Pakistan | 2009 |
| George Dockrell | 17y 282d | Ireland | 2010 |
| Sompal Kami | 18y 42d | Nepal | 2014 |
| Gulsan Jha | 18y 108d | Nepal | 2024 |
| Anshuman Rath | 18y 124d | Hong Kong | 2016 |
| Tamim Iqbal | 18y 177d | Bangladesh | 2007 |
| Paul Stirling | 18y 285d | Ireland | 2009 |
Note: Age* is considered at the start of each player’s first match in the T20 World Cup.
Key Insights
At 16 years and 335 days, UAE’s Aayan Afzal Khan became the youngest player to feature in T20 World Cup history. He made his T20 World Cup debut against the Netherlands in October 2022.
On the other hand, Hong Kong’s Ryan Campbell is the oldest player to play in the T20 World Cup. The wicketkeeper-batter played his last match against Scotland at the age of 44 years and 34 days in 2016.
Over 33 players made their T20 World Cup debuts before turning 20 years old.
Rohit Paudel is the youngest captain to lead a team in the tournament’s history. He led Nepal in their first match of the 2024 edition at the age of 21 years and 276 days.
While MS Dhoni is the youngest captain to win the T20 World Cup. Captain Cool was 26 years and 79 days old when India lifted the silverware in 2007.
Read Next | Stats: Most Consecutive Fifties in T20 World Cup
