India U19 Team Prepares for ICC World Cup: Former Players Share Their Support
Support from Former U19 Stars
As the India Under-19 team gears up for the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia, former U19 players Shubman Gill, Arshdeep Singh, and Dhruv Jurel have extended their best wishes to the young athletes, encouraging them to seize the opportunity and aim for victory.
Kickoff Against the USA
The Indian squad will commence their quest for a record sixth ICC U19 World Cup title against the USA in Bulawayo on Thursday, led by captain Ayush Mhatre.
Words of Encouragement
India's ODI and Test captain, Shubman Gill, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming matches, stating, "Wishing the Under-19 cricket team all the very best. I am very excited to watch you all perform in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Zimbabwe & Namibia 2026. Have fun," during a message on JioHotstar.
Arshdeep Singh emphasized the importance of the experience, saying, "The ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup Zimbabwe & Namibia 2026 is a very good platform. Hopefully, in the future, we will share the dressing room with each other. All the best to the Under-19 Indian team for the World Cup. Enjoy these moments; they will not come again and again in your life. It is a very good base for you all. No pressure, just bring the cup home."
Dhruv Jurel also shared his thoughts, recalling his own experience from the 2020 tournament. He remarked, "It is a very special moment when you represent your country at the highest stage in Under-19 Cricket. I still remember when we played the final against Bangladesh, even though we lost. I just want to wish you all the best because whatever cricket you play in the future, you will remember these days forever."
Recent Performance Insights
In the lead-up to the tournament, the India U19 team has shown impressive form, winning five out of six series, including a clean sweep against Australia at home and a hard-fought victory over England in the UK. They also secured a series win in South Africa.
However, their performance in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Under-19 Asia Cups has been less stellar, suffering defeats to Pakistan and Bangladesh in the finals of the last two editions.
Key Player to Watch
Vaibhav Suryavanshi is expected to lead the batting lineup, having amassed 973 runs in Youth ODIs at an impressive average of 54.05, including three centuries and four fifties, with a top score of 171. His aggressive strike rate of over 164 makes him a formidable player heading into the tournament.
After a disappointing loss to Australia in the U19 WC 2024 final, where they were bowled out for 174 in pursuit of 254, the Indian team is eager for redemption, while Australia aims to secure their fifth title.