Kenya U-19 cricket skipper Gohil confident ahead of World Cup qualifiers

Leading a team on a big stage is both a career-defining honour and a daunting challenge for any player.

However, Kenya Under-19 men’s cricket captain, Yash Gohil, remains unfazed by the pressure as he prepares to lead his team in the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) 50-Overs Under-19 Men’s World Cup Africa Division One Qualifier in Lagos, Nigeria, from March 26 to April 6.

The 18-year-old wicketkeeper and batsman credits his experience, including being part of the Kenyan squad that finished second in the 2024 ICC 50-Overs U19 World Cup Africa Division One Qualifier, for preparing him for the task ahead.

He believes his exposure to high-stakes matches has sharpened his ability to remain composed under pressure and make the most of every opportunity—skills he considers crucial for the upcoming competition.

“I want to inspire my team to be their best and make sure everyone plays a role in our success,” said Gohil. “The 2024 World Cup qualifier was intense, and we faced some tough situations, but it helped me understand how to keep the team composed and focused.

I also gained insights into what preparation works best for me and the team as a whole. This time, I want to use those lessons to guide the team through each phase of the tournament with confidence and resilience, as well as bringing the trophy back home to Kenya.”

Gohil, who succeeded Vishil Patel as captain, will lead Kenya against five other teams—hosts Nigeria, defending champions Namibia, Uganda, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania—all battling for the sole ticket to the 2026 ICC 50-Overs U19 Men’s World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Kenya Under-19 men’s cricket coach Josphat Irungu said Gohil was selected as captain due to his deep understanding of the game and his experience within the squad.

“We have been with him for three years, and he is also among the youngest top talents in the league (Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association),” Irungu said.

Gohil’s cricket journey began at the age of 13 when he was introduced to the sport by his father. Since then, he has honed his skills at school and Nairobi Gymkhana, competing in the Nairobi Provincial Cricket League (Division One and Super League).

His ambitions extend beyond the national team, as he dreams of playing in the prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL) and competing in county cricket in the United Kingdom.

Looking ahead to the qualifiers, Gohil is optimistic about Kenya’s chances of making a long-awaited return to the global stage for the first time since 2018.

“While the competition will undoubtedly be tough, we believe that if we stay focused, play to our strengths, and work together as a unit, we have a great chance of qualifying. Our goal is to take one match at a time, ensuring that we give our best in each game. I am optimistic about our chances, and I believe in the talent and spirit of this team,” he said.

Apart from Gohil, only three other players in the 14-man squad—Yuvraj Bhatyani (batsman), Neel Doshi (medium pace all-rounder), and Stian Smith (batsman and leg spinner)—were part of the team that competed in the 2024 ICC 50-Overs U19 World Cup Africa Division One Qualifier. The squad began training in January and is eager to prove itself on the continental stage.

Squad

Yash Gohil    Batsman/wk and Captain     
Ryan Kassam    Batsman     
Yuvraj Bhatyani    Batsman     
Stian Smith    Batsman/Legspinner    
Aditya Vekaria    Bat/Lespinner    
Akshith Sekar    Bat/offspinner     
Neel Doshi    Medium pace/Bat     
Chidam Saijeeth    Offspinner/Bat    
Shlok Saini    Leftarm spinner/Bat     
Prinay Galaiya    Bat    
Antony Ndungu    Medium pace     
James Githua    Medium pace     
Dhir Patel    offspinner     
Krishil Patel    Medium pace