The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially released the schedule for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6, 2026.
The tournament will feature 16 teams split into four groups of four in the opening stage, following the same format as previous editions, with 41 matches scheduled over 23 days.
Opening day matchups promise excitement, with India taking on the USA, Zimbabwe facing Scotland, and Tanzania clashing with the West Indies. Notably, Tanzania will make their tournament debut, while Japan returns after last participating in 2020.
After the group stage, the top three teams from each group will progress to the Super Six stage, leading into the knockout rounds, including two semi-finals and a grand final, with reserve days set aside for these crucial matches.
Matches will take place across key venues in Zimbabwe and Namibia, including Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Sports Club, Queens Sports Club, and in Namibia at the Namibia Cricket Ground and HP Oval in Windhoek.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah shared his excitement for the tournament:
“The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup has always been a breeding ground for cricketing legends. From Brian Lara and Sanath Jayasuriya to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, and Shubman Gill, this event shapes the stars of tomorrow. We are thrilled to provide young cricketers a world-class platform that mirrors senior international cricket, and we warmly welcome Tanzania for their debut.”
Teams are expected to arrive by January 8, with warm-up matches scheduled from January 9–14.
Tournament Groups:
- Group A: India (five-time champions), Bangladesh (2020 winners), USA, New Zealand
- Group B: Zimbabwe (co-hosts), Pakistan, England, Scotland
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