India U19 World Cup 2026 Squad, The countdown has officially begun, and Indian cricket fans have their eyes firmly fixed on the ICC Men’s U19 ODI World Cup 2026. Armed with a highly talented squad, a battle-tested youth development system, and a rich legacy in the tournament, India’s under-19 brigade is once again ready to take centre stage on the global platform.
Led by Ayush Mhatre and powered by the exciting Vaibhav Suryavanshi, this Indian side isn’t travelling to Zimbabwe and Namibia merely to participate – they’re arriving with one clear mission: domination.
In this article, we take a deep dive into India’s squad, the complete match schedule, tournament format, key players to watch, the possibility of a blockbuster India vs Pakistan showdown, and where Indian fans can watch every ball live.
This detailed coverage of the India U19 Cricket World Cup 2026 brings together squad analysis, fixtures, broadcast details, and key storylines, making it a complete guide for fans tracking India’s journey in the tournament.
U19 Cricket World Cup 2026: India Chase a Record-Extending Sixth Title
A New Chapter in India’s U19 Legacy
India’s association with the U19 Cricket World Cup is nothing short of legendary. Over the years, this tournament has served as a launchpad for future global superstars, and the 2026 edition could once again unveil the next big names in world cricket.
The ICC Men’s U19 ODI World Cup 2026 runs from January 15 to February 6, hosted across Zimbabwe and Namibia. With 16 teams, one coveted trophy, and immense pressure, the spotlight shines brightest on a nation that has made winning at this level a habit.
Arriving as five-time champions, India shoulder heavy expectations yet again. Under the leadership of Ayush Mhatre, the big question looms large:
Can this generation deliver a historic sixth U19 World Cup title?
India’s Record at the U19 World Cup
India U19 World Cup 2026 Squad, India are not just participants at this level – they are the gold standard.
Champions: 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022
Runners-up: 2006, 2016, 2020, 2024
Pause and reflect on that consistency. Over the past two decades, India have dominated the U19 stage, appearing in final after final. The only team close to their record is Australia, the defending champions, who hold four titles, including their 2024 final win over India.
That defeat still stings – and unfinished business could be powerful motivation for the Indian youngsters.
Tournament Format: How the 2026 U19 World Cup Works
Here’s a simple breakdown of the tournament structure:
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This is the 16th edition of the U19 World Cup
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16 teams divided into four groups of four
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Each team plays three group matches (single round-robin)
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Top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six stage
Super Six Phase
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12 teams split into two groups
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Some group-stage results carry forward, making early matches crucial
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Top two teams from each Super Six group qualify for the semi-finals
Knockouts
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Semi-finals: February 3 and February 4
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Final: February 6 in Harare
It looks straightforward, but the margin for error is razor-thin. One off day can derail an entire campaign.
India’s Group: Tricky Tests in Group A
India have been placed in Group A, alongside:
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New Zealand
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Bangladesh
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USA
All group matches will be played in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. While India start as favourites, youth cricket thrives on unpredictability.
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New Zealand are disciplined and tactically sharp
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Bangladesh have grown into a dangerous U19 force
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USA, though underdogs, have improved rapidly and can surprise
The group looks manageable, but complacency could be costly.
India’s U19 World Cup 2026 Schedule (IST)
Mark your calendars – here’s India’s group-stage schedule:
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January 15 (Thursday): India vs USA – 1:00 PM
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January 17 (Saturday): India vs Bangladesh – 1:00 PM
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January 24 (Saturday): India vs New Zealand – 1:00 PM
If India Qualify
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Super Six: January 25 to February 1 – 1:00 PM
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Semi-final 1: February 3 – 1:00 PM
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Semi-final 2: February 4 – 1:00 PM
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Final (Harare): February 6 – 1:00 PM
A strong start against USA could build crucial momentum for the tournament ahead.
Watch U19 World Cup 2026 Live in India
For Indian fans, missing this tournament is not an option.
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Live streaming: JioHotstar app and website
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Live telecast: Star Sports Network
Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the move, every delivery will be accessible. Just keep your afternoons free from mid-January to early February.
India U19 World Cup 2026 Squad: Future Stars in the Making
Here’s the 15-member Indian squad:
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Ayush Mhatre (c) | Top-order Batter / Captain |
| Vihaan Malhotra (vc) | Batting All-rounder / Vice-captain |
| Vaibhav Suryavanshi | Top-order Batter |
| Aaron George | Middle-order Batter |
| Vedant Trivedi | Batting All-rounder |
| Abhigyan Kundu (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Harvansh Singh (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| R.S. Ambrish | Batting All-rounder |
| Kanishk Chouhan | Spin Bowling All-rounder |
| Khilan A. Patel | Right-arm Fast Bowler |
| Mohamed Enaan | Fast Bowler |
| Henil Patel | Left-arm Spinner |
| D. Deepesh | Fast Bowling All-rounder |
| Kishan Kumar Singh | Right-arm Fast Bowler |
| Udhav Mohan | Spin Bowler |
With strong leadership, two wicketkeepers, multiple all-round options, and specialist bowlers, this squad looks balanced and flexible.
Key Players to Watch: Spotlight on Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Co.
U19 World Cups are often remembered for game-changing individual performances.
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Ayush Mhatre (Captain): Leadership under pressure will define his legacy
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Vihaan Malhotra (Vice-captain): A crucial link between players and management
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Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The X-factor of this Indian side
In a warm-up match against Scotland, India cruised to victory thanks to a blistering knock from Vaibhav Suryavanshi. His fearless approach during the powerplay overs gives India a significant edge.
Other players like Aaron George, Vedant Trivedi, and Kishan Kumar Singh will also be closely watched by fans and selectors alike.
Mixed Warm-Up Results: A Reality Check
India’s warm-up campaign offered valuable lessons.
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Dominant win vs Scotland, powered by Suryavanshi
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Narrow loss vs England, highlighting areas to improve
While defeats sting, close losses often sharpen focus. If India blend the confidence from Scotland with the learnings from England, they’ll enter the tournament battle-ready.
Could We See an India vs Pakistan Clash?
The question every fan asks before any ICC event: India vs Pakistan?
Yes, it’s possible – but only if both teams reach the semi-finals or beyond. Recently, Pakistan defeated India in the U19 Asia Cup final, a result that will still be fresh in Indian minds.
A World Cup knockout clash would bring pressure, emotion, and massive viewership – and for these youngsters, it would be a true audition for the future.
Why This U19 World Cup Matters for Indian Cricket
This tournament is where careers begin.
Past U19 World Cups introduced legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Yuvraj Singh, and Shubman Gill. These events test temperament, resilience, and mental toughness.
For the 15 boys in blue, this World Cup is not just about results – it’s about opportunity. Some will fade, some will flourish, and a few may rise to international stardom.
Also Read: Rising Star Vaibhav Suryavanshi – IPL Sensation and Youth Cricket Phenom
Conclusion
India U19 World Cup 2026 Squad, As the ICC Men’s U19 ODI World Cup 2026 begins, India once again step in as favourites and history-chasers. With five titles already secured, anything less than a deep run will feel like unfinished business.
Under Ayush Mhatre’s leadership, supported by Vihaan Malhotra and match-winners like Vaibhav Suryavanshi, this squad has everything needed to go the distance.
The group stage will set the rhythm, the Super Six will test consistency, and the knockouts will challenge nerves.
Can India’s young guns script history and lift a record-extending sixth U19 World Cup trophy?
The stage is set, the fixtures are locked, and the world is watching. Now, it’s time for potential to turn into glory.
