Ayush Mhatre to Lead India at Under-19 World Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced India’s Under-19 squads for the upcoming South Africa tour and the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, naming Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as captains for two major assignments. The selection reflects a dual-leadership strategy aimed at balancing recovery timelines with competitive preparation ahead of a packed international calendar.

Leadership Appointments for Key Assignments

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been appointed captain for India’s Under-19 tour of South Africa, which features a three-match One-Day series. Aaron George will serve as vice-captain. For the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, Ayush Mhatre will lead the Indian side, with Vihaan Malhotra named as his deputy. The decisions underline the selectors’ confidence in the leadership depth within the current age-group setup.

Injuries and Rehabilitation Plans

Ayush Mhatre and Vihaan Malhotra have been ruled out of the South Africa tour due to wrist injuries. Both players will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for treatment and rehabilitation. The board expects the duo to regain full fitness ahead of the Under-19 World Cup, where they are slated to play pivotal leadership roles.

South Africa Tour Schedule and Venues

India’s Under-19 team will play three One-Day matches against South Africa at Willowmoore Park in Benoni. The series begins on 3 January, followed by fixtures on 5 and 7 January. The tour is seen as a crucial preparatory phase, offering match exposure and tactical refinement ahead of the global tournament.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026 will be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia.
• The tournament will run from 15 January to 6 February 2026.
• Sixteen teams are divided into four groups, followed by Super Six and knockout stages.
• India are five-time Under-19 World Cup champions.

World Cup Groups and India’s Campaign

The ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026 will culminate in a final at Harare. India have been placed in Group B alongside New Zealand, Bangladesh, and the USA. The Indian team will open its campaign against the USA on 15 January at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, followed by matches against Bangladesh on 17 January and New Zealand on 24 January, setting the stage for another title challenge.