ZAINULLAH IHSAN

A remarkable journey from Afghanistan's tape-ball cricket to Scotland's international set-up has made Zainullah Ihsan one of the most intriguing young fast-bowling prospects in Scottish cricket. Born in Nangarhar in 2006, Ihsan moved to Glasgow in 2022 and began playing club cricket shortly after arriving. Within just a few years, the right-arm medium-fast bowler had progressed from local cricket to Scotland Under-19s and ultimately earned his senior international debut in 2026.

Ihsan's rapid rise continued when he was called into Scotland's squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. He made his T20I debut against Namibia in April 2026, taking 1/42 in his first international appearance. His performances at youth level had already offered an indication of his potential, with his best Under-19 figures of 3/42 coming against Ireland.

The opportunity with Belfast Wolves gives Ihsan another platform to accelerate an already remarkable rise. Still at the beginning of his senior career, his natural pace and developing skill-set could make him an intriguing seam option, while exposure to experienced international players around him should provide an ideal environment for the young bowler to continue developing.