Answer: The ICC Men’s Under‑19 World Cup launches on 15 January 2026 in Zimbabwe and Namibia, running through early February. The full fixture list features 16 teams, four groups, and matches at Harare Sports Club, Queens Sports Club, Wanderers Cricket Ground, and United Ground. Broadcasts will be live on the official ICC streaming platform, with prime‑time slots tailored for global audiences.
Historic Dual‑Host Arrangement
This edition is the first U‑19 World Cup co‑hosted by two African nations. Zimbabwe returns after a six‑year gap, offering Harare Sports Club and Queens Sports Club. Namibia contributes Wanderers Cricket Ground in Windhoek and the upgraded United Ground. The split‑host format aims to grow cricket in emerging markets and showcase upgraded facilities.
Tournament Structure
The 16‑team field is divided into four groups of four. Each team plays a round‑robin within its group; the top two advance to the “Super Eight” stage, which determines the semi‑finalists. All knockout matches, including the final, are scheduled for Harare.
Match Timings and Broadcast Details
- Opening match: India vs. Namibia – 10:00 am CAT (08:00 GMT) on 15 January at Harare Sports Club.
- Early‑day games cater to school‑age viewers in host nations.
- Evening fixtures start at 4:00 pm CAT, targeting prime‑time audiences in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
- Live coverage will be streamed on the official ICC platform, with regional broadcasters delivering the action worldwide.
Key Players to Watch
- Rohit Reddy (India) – 15‑year‑old batting prodigy, top of the ICC U‑19 batting rankings.
- Jude Thomson (England) – Swing bowler generating early buzz.
- Tendai Chikowore (Zimbabwe) – Promising all‑rounder from the 2025 Africa qualifiers.
- Lukas van der Merwe (Namibia) – Captain aiming to exploit spin‑friendly United Ground pitches.
Implications for African Cricket
The dual‑host model serves as a catalyst for cricket development across Africa. Both boards have invested in pitch renovations, stadium upgrades, and grassroots coaching clinics. Junior registrations in Zimbabwe have risen 27 %, while Namibia’s cricket academy recorded record enrollment for its winter program. Increased visibility may attract new sponsorships, bolstering financial stability.
Strategic Impact of the Schedule
With the fixture list finalised, teams can fine‑tune preparations for venue‑specific conditions—slower, turning wickets in Harare versus faster, seam‑friendly surfaces in Windhoek. The two‑time‑zone spread tests squad depth and travel management, while the tight group format means every match is crucial for advancement.
How to Stay Updated
Fans can follow live scores, detailed statistics, and post‑match analysis on the official ICC tournament website. The tournament hashtag #U19WorldCup2026 will provide real‑time highlights, behind‑the‑scenes footage, and fan reactions across social platforms.
The U19 World Cup 2026 promises a showcase of emerging talent, a celebration of African hospitality, and a stepping stone for the next generation of cricketing legends.