Harare, Dec 10 (NationPress) The twin sons of renowned former international all-rounder Andy Blignaut, Michael and Kian, have made it into Zimbabwe's U19 World Cup squad. This tournament will be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6, 2026.

On Tuesday, the co-hosting nations became the third to announce their squad for the U19 World Cup, revealing a 15-player team for this 16th edition of the championship.

Blignaut was a formidable player, participating in 74 matches for Zimbabwe, including the 2003 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in South Africa. Now, his sons have the chance to emulate his success in international cricket, having been included in the squad for this prestigious event.

At just 17 years old, the twins are skilled with both bat and ball and will get the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities on home turf. Zimbabwe is placed in Group C along with England, Pakistan, and Scotland and will host all its group matches at Takashinga Cricket Club.

Pacer Simbarashe Mudzengerere has been appointed as captain for Zimbabwe in the tournament. The squad also features top-order batter Nathaniel Hlabangana, who represented Zimbabwe in the last U19 World Cup held in South Africa in 2024.

Before the tournament kicks off, Zimbabwe will engage in warm-up matches against the United States at Old Hararians Sports Club in Harare on January 10, followed by a match against New Zealand at Masvingo Sports Club on January 12.

The team's campaign will commence against Scotland on January 15, continuing with matches against England on January 18 and Pakistan on January 22.

Head Coach Elton Chigumbura expressed his contentment with the final squad, commending the team's talent and overall balance.

"This group has dedicated significant effort over the last 16 to 18 months and has demonstrated consistent development. Some players who performed admirably were not selected, but the final choices were made based solely on team balance and the necessary combinations for World Cup cricket," Chigumbura stated.

The tournament will see 16 teams compete across 41 matches, starting with a group phase, followed by the Super Six, semi-finals, and the final in Harare.

Zimbabwe U19 Squad: Simbarashe Mudzengerere (c), Kian Blignaut, Michael Blignaut, Leeroy Chiwaula, Tatenda Chimugoro, Brendon Senzere, Nathaniel Hlabangana, Takudzwa Makoni, Panashe Mazai, Webster Madhidhi, Shelton Mazvitorera, Kupakwashe Muradzi, Brandon Ndiweni, Dhruv Patel, Benny Zuze