India Aims for Sixth Under-19 World Cup Title Against USA

As the Under-19 World Cup commences, India is set to face the USA in their opening match, aiming for a record sixth title. With a strong squad and a history of success, the team looks to showcase its talent. Key players like Ayush Mhatre and the young sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi are expected to lead the charge. After a recent warm-up loss, India is determined to bounce back and make a strong statement in the tournament. Will they secure another championship? Read on to find out more about their journey and the competition ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 12:40 IST

India's Ambitious Journey Begins

As the Under-19 World Cup kicks off, India, a powerhouse in youth cricket, is set to showcase its remarkable talent against the USA in what is anticipated to be a straightforward match on Thursday.

With five titles out of 16 tournaments, India stands as the most successful team in the history of this championship, which commenced in 1988, with Australia winning the first edition.

Prominent players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Kane Williamson, Joe Root, and Steve Smith first made their mark in this tournament, which provided a glimpse of their extraordinary abilities.

Shubman Gill, who currently leads the Test and ODI teams, also made his debut in this competition during the 2018 edition, where India triumphed under Prithvi Shaw's captaincy, although Shaw's career has seen ups and downs since then.

The tournament has historically been a launchpad for cricket legends such as Brian Lara, Sanath Jayasuriya, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and others who have left a significant mark on the sport.

After missing the last edition in 2024, where they lost to Australia in the finals, India, having previously won in 2000, 2008, 2012, and 2022, is eager to secure a sixth title.

The squad appears strong and well-rounded, boasting 13 victories in their last 16 matches, including series wins in England, Australia, and South Africa, demonstrating their capability to win, especially overseas.

Leading the Indian challenge will be the talented Vaibhav Suryavanshi, along with captain Ayush Mhatre, vice-captain Vihaan Malhotra, and top-order batsman Aaron George, who was the leading scorer in the last U-19 Asia Cup.

Despite some concerns regarding Mhatre's recent form, the team also includes Abhigyan Kundu, who has shown impressive performance.

At just 14, Suryavanshi has already gained attention for his remarkable 35-ball century in the 2025 IPL season, marking him as a future star.

While Mhatre and Malhotra return from injuries to strengthen the batting lineup, the pace attack features Deepesh Devendran, whose unique bowling style could be a game-changer.

RS Ambrish adds pace and batting depth, supported by fellow pacers Kishan Singh and Henil Patel.

Entering the tournament, India aims to put aside their recent 20-run loss to England in a rain-affected warm-up match.

The USA, led by the powerful Utkarsh Srivastava, is not expected to challenge the formidable Indian team significantly.

India is placed in Group B alongside New Zealand, USA, and Bangladesh, with their next matches scheduled against Bangladesh on January 17 and New Zealand on January 24 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

The tournament is co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, featuring 16 teams, including newcomers Tanzania and Japan, with Tanzania making its debut at a global event.

Teams (from):

India: Ayush Mhatre ©, R.S. Ambrish, Kanishk Chouhan, D. Deepesh, Mohamed Enaan, Aaron George, Abhigyan Kundu, Kishan Kumar Singh, Vihaan Malhotra, Udhav Mohan, Henil Patel, Khilan A. Patel, Harvansh Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Vedant Trivedi.

USA: Utkarsh Srivastava ©, Adnit Jhamb, Shiv Shani, Nitish Sudini, Advaith Krishna, Sahir Bhatia, Arjun Mahesh, Amrinder Gill, Sabrish Prasad, Adit Kappa, Sahil Garg, Amogh Reddy Arepally, Ritvik Appidi, Rayaan Taj, Rishabh Shimpi.