India to open U19 World Cup 2026 campaign against USA; final on February 6 in Harare
The ICC has announced the fixtures for the 2026 U19 Men's Cricket World Cup, with Zimbabwe and Namibia set to jointly host the event from January 15 to February 6. The 16 participating teams will contest 41 matches over three weeks, with the final scheduled for February 6 in Harare.
The tournament will get underway with a busy opening day featuring last World Cup's runners-up India facing USA, Zimbabwe vs Scotland, and a landmark appearance for Tanzania, who will play their first-ever match at a global ICC event against the West Indies. Reigning champions Australia begin their title defence on January 16, taking on Ireland in Windhoek.
Matches will be staged across five grounds split between the two host nations, including Harare Sports Club, Takashinga and Queens Sports Club in Zimbabwe, and the Namibia Cricket Ground and HP Oval in Windhoek.
The competition will follow the familiar structure: four groups, a Super Six phase, and then the two semi-finals preceding the final. The warm-up fixtures are scheduled from January 9 to 14.
THE GROUPS:
Group A: India, Bangladesh, USA, New Zealand
Group B: Zimbabwe, Pakistan, England, Scotland
Group C: Australia, Ireland, Japan, Sri Lanka
Group D: Tanzania, West Indies, Afghanistan, South Africa
Speaking about the tournament, ICC chairman Jay Shah said: "The ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup has long been the cradle of greatness, a tournament that reveals not just the next generation of cricketers, but the next generation of icons. From Brian Lara and Sanath Jayasuriya to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith and Shubman Gill, the event has consistently shaped the future of our sport.
"As we look ahead to the 2026 edition in Zimbabwe and Namibia, we are excited to provide young cricketers with a world-class platform that mirrors the standards and pressures of senior international cricket. This tournament is where dreams are ignited, rivalries are born, and the global cricketing landscape begins to take its next form.
"We are especially pleased to welcome Tanzania as they make their debut and join a truly global field of teams. I extend my warmest wishes to all participating squads as they embark on this remarkable journey, representing their countries with pride and promise."
