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Future Icons Revealed: ICC Announces U19 World Cup 2026 Schedule, Final Set for February 6 in Harare
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Future Icons to Clash as U19 World Cup Schedule is Revealed
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially released the complete fixture list for the 2026 U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. The event is set to be jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, running from January 15 through to the final on February 6 in Harare.
The tournament will feature 16 international teams competing in 41 matches over three intense weeks, promising to showcase the next generation of cricketing talent.
Key Dates and Opening Battles
The competition starts with a busy day of action on January 15:
- India’s Campaign Start: The runners-up from the previous edition, India, will immediately face the USA on the opening day.
- Host Nation Action: Co-host Zimbabwe will begin against Scotland.
- Historic Debut: The opening day also marks a major milestone as Tanzania makes its first-ever appearance at a global ICC event, taking on the West Indies.
- Defending Champions: Reigning titleholders Australia commence their defense in Windhoek on January 16 against Ireland.
Tournament Structure and Venues
The traditional structure remains in place, featuring four groups followed by a Super Six phase, two semi-finals, and the grand final. Warm-up matches will precede the main event from January 9 to 14.
Matches will be divided across five grounds in the two host nations:
- Zimbabwe: Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Cricket Club, and Queens Sports Club.
- Namibia: Namibia Cricket Ground and HP Oval in Windhoek.
Grouping and Rivalries
The 16 teams have been divided into the following four groups:
| Group A | Group B | Group C | Group D |
| India | Zimbabwe | Australia | Tanzania |
| Bangladesh | Pakistan | Ireland | West Indies |
| USA | England | Japan | Afghanistan |
| New Zealand | Scotland | Sri Lanka | South Africa |
A Platform for Future Greatness
ICC Chairman Jay Shah emphasized the tournament’s significance, calling it the “cradle of greatness.”
“The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup has consistently shaped the future of our sport, producing icons like Brian Lara, Virat Kohli, and Steve Smith,” said Jay Shah. “As we look ahead to 2026, we are thrilled to provide young cricketers with a world-class platform that mirrors the standards and pressures of senior international cricket. We are especially pleased to welcome Tanzania as they make their debut and join a truly global field.”
The 2026 edition promises to be where the next generation of global stars ignites their careers.
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IMAGE CREDITS : CRICBUZZ
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