Harare: Asian champions Pakistan U19 will commence their ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup 2026 campaign against England this Friday at the Takashinga Sports Club in Harare. The team, fresh off victories in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup and a tri-series in Zimbabwe, aims to maintain its momentum and secure a third ICC U19 title.
According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the tournament will be held in Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6. Pakistan is placed in Group ‘C’ alongside England, Scotland, and hosts Zimbabwe. Following their opening match, Pakistan will face Scotland on January 19 and Zimbabwe on January 22, both at the Takashinga Sports Club. The Super Six stage will occur in Bulawayo and Harare, with the semi-finals scheduled for February 3 and 4, and the final on February 6 at the Harare Sports Club.
Ahead of the tournament, Pakistan U19 participated in training sessions and warm-up matches, defeating the USA by 69 runs after their match against Bangladesh was washed out. The 15-member squad, led by Farhan Yousaf, includes Ali Raza, the only player from the 2024 World Cup squad.
The team is scheduled to travel to Harare from Bulawayo and will hold a training session on Thursday. Captain Farhan Yousaf expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, citing the benefits of a consistent support staff and the experience gained from recent competitions.
The squad comprises Farhan Yousaf (captain), Usman Khan (vice-captain), and 13 other players, with Sarfaraz Ahmed serving as manager and mentor. The team will face England, Scotland, and Zimbabwe in the group stage, with the possibility of advancing to the Super Six and beyond.
The tournament represents an opportunity for Pakistan to secure a third U19 World Cup title, having previously won in 2004 and 2006.