The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 is set to take place from January 15 to February 6, 2026, featuring emerging cricket talents from around the globe. This prestigious tournament is a key event in the cricketing calendar and will see 16 teams divided into groups of four during the initial stage, totaling 41 matches over 23 days.
The opening matches will introduce India as they face the USA, while Zimbabwe competes against Scotland, and Tanzania makes its tournament debut against the West Indies. Additionally, Japan is returning to the competition after participating in the 2020 edition. The tournament format remains unchanged, with teams competing for advancement to the subsequent Super Six phase, where the top three squads from each group will be regrouped into two groups of six.
Following the Super Six, the tournament will progress to the knockout stage, which includes two semi-finals and a final, with reserve days allotted for these crucial matches. Matches will be held in various venues in Zimbabwe and Namibia, including Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Sports Club, Queens Sports Club, Namibia Cricket Ground, and HP Oval.
ICC Chairman has expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, highlighting its importance as a platform for nurturing future cricket stars who might follow in the footsteps of legendary players like Brian Lara and Virat Kohli. The tournament is recognized as a breeding ground for both talent and rivalries, reflecting the intense competitive spirit that characterizes international cricket. With Tanzania's debut, the event boasts a genuinely global representation of cricketing nations.
Teams are expected to arrive on January 8, 2026, followed by warm-up matches scheduled from January 9 to 14. Group compositions feature some of the world’s strongest cricketing nations: Group A includes five-time champions India, the 2020 champions Bangladesh, the USA, and New Zealand; Group B hosts co-hosts Zimbabwe, alongside Pakistan, England, and Scotland; Group C features defending champions Australia, Ireland, Japan, and Sri Lanka; and Group D sees Tanzania, the West Indies, Afghanistan, and South Africa.
The tournament promises an exciting array of matches starting with the clash between USA and India on January 15. Other key matches on the opening day include Zimbabwe versus Scotland and Tanzania against the West Indies. As the tournament unfolds, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to competitive games leading up to the anticipated final on February 6 at Harare Sports Club.
Ultimately, the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup provides an invaluable experience for young players, setting the stage for the next generation of cricket. With a diverse lineup and a prestigious history, the 2026 edition is poised to be a captivating event for fans and future stars alike.