Debuting at a very young age in One Day International (ODI) cricket is a rare and remarkable achievement. The Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History have demonstrated extraordinary talent, skill, and maturity while still in their teenage years. These players often face highly experienced opponents and challenging match conditions, yet they rise to the occasion with courage and determination. Early exposure allows these young cricketers to develop their skills over several years, gain invaluable experience, and make lasting contributions to their teams. This article highlights the top 10 Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, ranked from 10th to 1st, with detailed descriptions of their early careers and statistical summaries for each debut Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History.
List of 10 Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History
10. Shahid Afridi
Shahid Afridi made his ODI debut for Pakistan at just 16 years and 215 days against Kenya in Nairobi on 2nd October 1996. As one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Afridi instantly drew attention for his explosive batting style. Known as “Boom Boom Afridi,” he became famous for hitting big sixes and scoring rapidly in limited-overs cricket. Starting international cricket at such a young age allowed him to gain years of valuable experience, develop his leg-spin bowling, and become a match-winner for Pakistan. Over his career, Afridi’s fearless approach and consistent performances made him one of the most celebrated all-rounders in ODI cricket. His story exemplifies how early debuts can help a young player grow into a global cricketing icon Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16y 215d | Pakistan | 2 Oct 1996 | 1123 |
9. Y Punja
Y Punja debuted for the United Arab Emirates at 16 years and 206 days against Hong Kong at ICCA Dubai on 16th November 2015. His early entry places him among the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History. Punja’s debut highlights the UAE’s focus on nurturing young talent to strengthen their national team. Starting international cricket at such a young age gave him the opportunity to experience the pressures of top-level competition, learn from experienced teammates, and improve his skills in real match situations. His early debut illustrates how providing youth with international exposure can accelerate development, instill confidence, and prepare them for long-term contributions to their teams Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16y 206d | U.A.E. | 16 Nov 2015 | 3709 |
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8. Aaqib Javed
Aaqib Javed made his ODI debut at 16 years and 127 days against West Indies in Adelaide on 10th December 1988. Being one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Javed quickly became known for his pace, swing, and accuracy. Starting international cricket at such an early age allowed him to gain extensive match experience and develop into a key bowler for Pakistan. His early exposure to international competition enabled him to handle pressure situations, refine his techniques, and emerge as a reliable player. Javed’s debut demonstrates how giving young talent early opportunities can result in long-lasting impact and consistent performance at the highest level.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16y 127d | Pakistan | 10 Dec 1988 | 535 |
7. Kushal Malla
Kushal Malla made his ODI debut at 15 years and 340 days against the U.S.A. at Kirtipur on 8th February 2020. As one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Malla’s inclusion at this age demonstrates Nepal’s emphasis on youth development. Debuting internationally before turning 16 provided him the platform to gain crucial match experience, adapt to competitive pressures, and enhance his batting and fielding skills. His early debut allowed him to learn game strategies, build confidence, and mature as a player over time. Malla’s journey underscores the importance of integrating young talent into international cricket to prepare them for long-term success oungest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15y 340d | Nepal | 8 Feb 2020 | 4240 |
6. RK Paudel
RK Paudel debuted for Nepal at 15 years and 335 days against the Netherlands in Amstelveen on 3rd August 2018. Being one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Paudel benefited greatly from early exposure to international cricket. Playing at this age allowed him to experience high-level competition, understand the demands of ODI cricket, and develop mental and technical skills. His debut reflects Nepal’s approach to nurturing young talent and building a strong national team for the future. Paudel’s early start also helped him gain confidence in his abilities and learn from more experienced teammates, accelerating his cricketing development.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15y 335d | Nepal | 3 Aug 2018 | 4028 |
5. NR Kumar
NR Kumar made his ODI debut at 15 years and 273 days against Afghanistan in Sharjah on 18th February 2010. As one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Kumar gained valuable international exposure while still in his teens. His early debut allowed him to adapt to the demands of professional cricket, face experienced opponents, and enhance his skills through practical experience. Playing at such a young age gave him confidence and helped him develop resilience, while also inspiring other young players in Canada. Kumar’s debut highlights the significance of youth development programs in associate nations to build future-ready teams oungest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15y 273d | Canada | 18 Feb 2010 | 2959 |
4. Gurdeep Singh
Gurdeep Singh made his ODI debut for Kenya at 15 years and 258 days against Afghanistan in Sharjah on 4th October 2013. Being one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Singh’s early start reflects Kenya’s confidence in nurturing promising youth. Starting international cricket at a very young age allowed him to develop technical skills, adapt to international standards, and handle high-pressure situations with maturity. His early debut also provided a foundation for long-term growth and consistency in performance. Singh’s career demonstrates the benefits of trusting young players to perform on the international stage and build their careers gradually.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15y 258d | Kenya | 4 Oct 2013 | 3418 |
3. Gulsan Jha
Gulsan Jha debuted for Nepal at 15 years and 212 days against the U.S.A. at Al Amerat on 17th September 2021. He is regarded as one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History. Starting at such an early age allowed Jha to gain crucial experience, understand match strategies, and develop confidence under pressure. His early entry also reflects Nepal’s strategy to identify and cultivate young talent for long-term competitiveness. Jha’s debut highlights how youth exposure in international cricket builds resilience, skills, and a strong foundation for a successful career.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15y 212d | Nepal | 17 Sep 2021 | 4327 |
2. Mohammad Sharif
Mohammad Sharif made his ODI debut at 15 years and 116 days against Zimbabwe in Harare on 7th April 2001. Being one of the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History, Sharif gained early exposure to international cricket, allowing him to develop his skills and adapt to competitive match situations. Starting so young helped him build confidence, learn tactics, and prepare for a long career in ODI cricket. Sharif’s debut reflects Bangladesh’s trust in talented youth and emphasizes how early opportunities can shape a player’s career trajectory and long-term contribution to the team.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15y 116d | Bangladesh | 7 Apr 2001 | 1702 |
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1. Hasan Raza
Hasan Raza holds the record as the youngest player ever to play in an ODI, debuting at 14 years and 233 days against Zimbabwe in Quetta on 30th October 1996. Raza’s debut makes him the foremost figure among the Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History. Beginning international cricket at such an early age allowed him to gain years of experience, refine his skills, and adapt to professional standards over time. His early start also provided him with the opportunity to develop leadership qualities, handle pressure situations, and contribute consistently to Pakistan’s team. Hasan Raza’s record remains a benchmark for youth potential in cricket worldwide.
| Age | Team | Match Date | ODI # |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14y 233d | Pakistan | 30 Oct 1996 | 1133 |
The Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History illustrate that talent and maturity can emerge at remarkably young ages. Players like Hasan Raza, Kushal Malla, Gulsan Jha, and Mohammad Sharif demonstrate how early exposure to international cricket helps young athletes develop technical skills, confidence, and resilience. Their journeys show the value of integrating youth into national teams, allowing them to learn from experienced teammates, handle pressure, and contribute significantly to team success. These young debuts not only shape individual careers but also inspire future generations to pursue international cricket early and ambitiously Youngest Players to Debut in ODI Cricket History.