Is Kazuma Kato-Stafford set to lead Japan in the 2026 U19 World Cup?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Kazuma Kato-Stafford has been chosen to lead Japan in the upcoming 2026 U19 Cricket World Cup. The tournament will be hosted in Namibia and Zimbabwe, showcasing young talent on an international stage. With strong players returning to the squad and a determined coaching staff, Japan aims to make a significant impact in this prestigious competition.
Key Takeaways
- Kazuma Kato-Stafford named captain for 2026 U19 World Cup.
- Japan aims for success in Namibia and Zimbabwe.
- Strong players like Nihar Parmar returning to the squad.
- Coaching led by Reo Sakurano-Thomas.
- Group C includes Sri Lanka, Australia, and Ireland.
Tokyo, Dec 10 (NationPress) Kazuma Kato-Stafford has been appointed as the leader of Japan's team for the 2026 Men’s Under-19 World Cup, which will take place in Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6.
Nikhil Pol and Timothy Moore, who were absent from the recent Asian Cricket Council Premier Cup in Ajman, have both rejoined the squad for this significant event. In that tournament, Japan achieved victories against Maldives and Qatar by a margin of 183 runs, but a defeat against Oman prevented them from advancing to the semi-finals.
Among the notable players, Nihar Parmar scored 156 runs off 132 balls against Maldives, while Kaisei Kobayashi-Doggett made 106 runs off 73 balls against Qatar, both of whom have secured spots in the World Cup team.
Reo Sakurano-Thomas, who is an active senior men’s international cricketer, has been appointed as the head coach for the U19 squad. Meanwhile, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, the captain of Japan’s senior men’s team, will take on the role of assistant coach.
Japan is placed in Group C of the tournament alongside Sri Lanka, the defending champions Australia, and Ireland. The team will depart for South Africa on January 5 to engage in warm-up matches against Tanzania and the West Indies on January 10 and January 12, respectively.
This marks Japan's second participation in the U19 World Cup, having first competed in the tournament held in South Africa in 2020. The 16th edition of the Men’s Under-19 World Cup will showcase 16 teams divided into four groups, with each team playing against the other three in its group. The top three will advance to the Super Six stage.
The leading four teams from this stage will qualify for the semi-finals, scheduled to take place on February 3 and February 4 in Bulawayo and Harare, with the final match set to be held at the Harare Sports Club on February 6.
Japan squad: Charles Hara-Hinze, Gabriel Hara-Hinze, Montgomery Hara-Hinze, Kazuma Kato-Stafford (Captain), Kaisei Kobayashi-Doggett, Timothy Moore, Skyler Nakayama-Cook, Ryuki Ozeki, Nihar Parmar, Nikhil Pol, Chihaya Sekine, Hugo Tani-Kelly, Sandev Aaryan Waduge, Kai Wall, and Taylor Waugh.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight Japan's growing presence in international cricket. Kazuma Kato-Stafford's captaincy marks a significant milestone for the U19 team, reflecting the country's investment in nurturing young talent. The challenges ahead are immense, but the potential for success is equally promising. We believe in this team's capability to make their mark on the world stage.
NationPress
11/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kazuma Kato-Stafford?
Kazuma Kato-Stafford is the newly appointed captain of Japan's U19 cricket team for the 2026 Men's Under-19 World Cup.
Where will the 2026 U19 World Cup be held?
The 2026 Men’s Under-19 World Cup will take place in Namibia and Zimbabwe.
When does the tournament start?
The tournament is scheduled to be held from January 15 to February 6, 2026.
Which teams are in Japan's group?
Japan is in Group C alongside Sri Lanka, Australia, and Ireland.
What are Japan's warm-up match dates?
Japan will play warm-up matches against Tanzania and the West Indies on January 10 and January 12, respectively.
