The ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026 is set to showcase the next generation of cricketing talent, with several young players already making strong impressions at junior and even senior levels.
From record-breaking batters to exciting fast bowlers and all-rounders, the tournament promises plenty of standout performances.
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Pakistan
Pakistan enter the tournament with confidence after winning the Under-19 Asia Cup. Opener Sameer Minhas is the biggest name to watch.
He dominated the Asia Cup, finishing as Player of the Tournament after scoring a match-winning 172 against India in the final. His consistency and composure at the top of the order make him a key figure for Pakistan.
Fast bowler Ali Raza is another exciting prospect.
The quick pacer has already featured in the PSL and impressed at the Asia Cup, where he claimed a four-wicket haul against India in the final.
His ability to generate pace and bounce sets him apart from other young seamers.
India
India’s biggest attraction is 14-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has already created headlines with his fearless batting.
He stunned the cricketing world by scoring a 38-ball century in the IPL and continues to break records at junior levels. Despite his age, he will carry high expectations into the tournament.
READ: Where to Watch ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 in Pakistan
Australia
Defending champions Australia will once again rely on Oliver Peake, who returns after lifting the trophy in the previous edition.
Peake will captain the side and brings valuable experience from domestic cricket and the Big Bash League, where he recently sealed a thrilling win with a last-ball six for the Melbourne Renegades.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh have invested heavily in preparation, several countries ahead of the World Cup.
Fast bowler Iqbal Hossain Emon is expected to lead the attack after delivering multiple five-wicket hauls in recent series.
England
England’s hopes rest largely on Thomas Rew, who has already made a name for himself in county cricket.
His experience at senior level gives England a reliable batting option.
Spinner Farhan Ahmed, who featured in the previous Under-19 World Cup, will play an important role on dry pitches, while Ben Dawkins adds strength to the batting unit.
South Africa
From South Africa, captain and wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Bulbulia and batter Jorich Van Schalkwyk, who recently scored a double century, are players to keep an eye on.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan arrive with momentum after playing extensive cricket in the build-up. Batter Khalid Ahmadzai stood out in qualifiers with over 200 runs, while fast bowler Nooristani Ormazi is expected to be a major threat.
Others to Watch
Japan’s Charlie Hara-Hinze is one of the most intriguing players in the tournament. A spin-bowling all-rounder, he has already represented Japan at senior level and was instrumental in their qualification campaign.
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New Zealand captain Tom Jones, Ireland all-rounder Sebastian Dijkstra and Scotland’s Manu Saraswat also add to a strong list of emerging talent.
With so many young players already showing promise on big stages, the Under-19 World Cup 2026 is set to be a platform where future international stars begin to truly announce themselves.
