Zimbabwe and Namibia will co-host the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026, which will kick off on January 15, 2026.
This 16-team limited-overs event will run until February 6, showcasing the brightest young talents from around the cricketing world.
Tournament Format and Key Dates
The 16 nations are divided into four groups, with the group stage leading into the Super Sixes, followed by semi-finals and the final on February 6 in Harare.
In total, 41 matches are scheduled across five venues in Zimbabwe and Namibia, offering a platform for emerging stars to shine.
Opening Matches and Fixtures
The ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 will get underway on January 15, bringing together the world’s top young cricketing talents.
On the opening day of the World Cup—January 15—multiple fixtures will get underway, including India U19 vs USA U19, Zimbabwe U19 vs Scotland U19, and Tanzania U19 vs West Indies U19.
Warm-up matches played from January 9 to January 14 to help teams prepare ahead of the main competition. (SuperSport)
All squads are revealed for the tournament
Teams from all six cricketing regions have announced their squads for the Under-19 World Cup.
The group line-ups feature a mix of traditional powerhouses and rising sides, with several talented youngsters expected to make an impact throughout the event.
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Match Officials and Global Representation
The ICC has named an experienced panel of 17 umpires and four match referees to oversee the tournament.
Officials hail from 13 different nationalities, ensuring strong international representation and fairness across the competition.
Teams to Watch in Group Stages
Group B has drawn significant attention, with India, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and the USA all competing for early momentum.
India, historically the most successful U19 side, will be keen to build on their record, while other teams aim to upset the traditional hierarchy.
Bangladesh Unveils Under-19 Squad
Bangladesh recently announced its U19 squad for the tournament, naming Azizul Hakim as captain.
The team will look to carry forward its recent youth success into this global event, hoping to make a strong impression in its group matches.
Sri Lanka and South Africa Teams Confirmed
Sri Lanka has finalised its 15-member squad, with Vimath Dinsara leading the side. South Africa has also selected its 15-player team, captained by Muhammad Bulbulia.
Both teams bring balanced squads with exciting prospects for the World Cup.
Rising Stars Highlighted Ahead of Tournament
Beyond team announcements, analysts have highlighted several young players to watch. Including Pakistan’s Farhan Yousaf and New Zealand’s Tom Jones—both expected to be key contributors for their sides.
Global Youth Cricket Showcase Begins Soon
With anticipation building around the world’s biggest youth cricket event, fans will be watching closely as tomorrow’s cricket stars take centre stage in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The Under-19 World Cup 2026 celebrates emerging talent and provides invaluable experience on the international stage.