What Wishes Does ICC Chief Jay Shah Have for U19 World Cup Teams?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup is a prestigious event for young cricketers.
- Jay Shah expresses strong support for participating teams.
- Matches will occur in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
- India's team is led by Ayush Mhatre.
- Australia is the reigning champion.
New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) The chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Jay Shah, has conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the U19 cricket stars as they embark on their World Cup journey in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The 16th edition of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup kicks off on Thursday with a match between India and the United States in Bulawayo.
"I wish all the teams and players the very best as the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup commences on January 15 in the host nations Zimbabwe and Namibia."
"Our youth events have historically served as a launchpad for many of cricket's greatest talents, and I am confident this will continue," shared the ICC chief on X.
Heading the Indian team is Ayush Mhatre, placed in Group B with New Zealand, the USA, and Bangladesh. The promising all-rounder Vihaan Malhotra will assist Mhatre as vice-captain during the tournament.
The defending champions, Australia, claimed the title in the last edition, defeating India in the final, totaling four championships, closely following India, who has won five times.
Pakistan is the other nation with multiple titles, having achieved consecutive victories in 2004 and 2006, while West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh, and England have each secured one championship.
The tournament will unfold across five venues in Zimbabwe and Namibia, with Zimbabwe hosting 25 matches, including the semi-finals and finals, while Namibia will see 16 matches.
All matches in Namibia will take place in Windhoek at two venues: the Namibia Cricket Ground and High Performance Oval. In Zimbabwe, games will be held in Harare and Bulawayo, with the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo being the sole venue alongside Harare Sports Club and Takashinga Sports Club in the capital.
The Queens Sports Club and Harare Sports Club will host the semi-finals on February 3 and 4, with the final taking place at the Harare Sports Club on February 6.