Harare: The ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026 commenced with India and the West Indies securing victories over their respective opponents, USA and Tanzania, while inclement weather led to the abandonment of the match between Zimbabwe and Scotland.
According to International Cricket Council, India, a five-time winner, capitalized on Henil Patel's impressive bowling and Abhigyan Kundu's solid batting performance to achieve a six-wicket win against the USA. After winning the toss, India chose to field, and Patel's efficient opening spell dismantled the USA's top order, restricting them to a total of 107. Rain later reduced India's target to 96, which they achieved despite early setbacks, thanks to a crucial partnership between Kundu and Vihaan Malhotra.
In Windhoek, the West Indies triumphed over Tanzania by five wickets, driven by Tanez Francis's noteworthy half-century and a disciplined bowling performance led by Vitel Lawes. After winning the toss, the Windies opted to bowl first, limiting Tanzania to 121 runs. Francis's partnership with Jewel Andrew steered the West Indies to victory despite a brief Tanzanian resurgence.
Meanwhile, the match between Zimbabwe and Scotland in Harare was called off without any play due to rain, with both teams sharing a point. Zimbabwe is set to face England, and Scotland will play against Pakistan in their upcoming matches.
India's next match is against Bangladesh, while the USA will face New Zealand. The West Indies are slated to play Afghanistan, and Tanzania will meet South Africa in their subsequent fixtures.