Zimbabwe and Namibia will jointly host the 2026 U-19 Cricket World Cup

India’s Under-19 cricket team will begin their 2026 ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup journey against the United States on January 15 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The upcoming edition of the youth tournament will be jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6, featuring 16 teams across four groups competing in 41 matches over 23 days.

India Placed in Group A

India finds itself in Group A alongside the USA, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. The young Men in Blue will play all three of their group matches at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo — against the USA on January 15, Bangladesh on January 17, and New Zealand on January 24. The top three teams from each group will qualify for the Super Six stage, which will determine the semi-finalists.

Group Division and Tournament Structure

Group B includes Zimbabwe, Pakistan, England, and Scotland, while defending champions Australia lead Group C alongside Ireland, Japan, and Sri Lanka. Group D comprises South Africa, the West Indies, Afghanistan, and debutants Tanzania. The top-performing sides from each pool will progress to the next round, where the Super Six phase will further filter the finalists.

Venues and Schedule Highlights

Matches will be played at five main venues — Harare Sports Club and Takashinga Sports Club in Harare, Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, and two venues in Windhoek, Namibia — the Namibia Cricket Ground and HP Oval. The semi-finals are scheduled for February 3 and 4, with the grand final to be held at Harare Sports Club on February 6. Reserve days have been allotted for all knockout games to ensure uninterrupted play.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The 2026 U-19 World Cup will be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia.
• Tanzania will make their first-ever appearance in an ICC event.
• Japan returns after last playing in the 2020 U-19 edition.
• India and Pakistan are in separate groups but could meet in the knockouts.

India’s Hunt for Sixth Title

India remains the most successful team in U-19 World Cup history, with five titles to their name. The squad will aim to defend their strong record under new leadership, focusing on maintaining dominance at the youth level and continuing the legacy of producing future cricketing stars.