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[PICTURES/VIDEOS] ICC Under-19 World Cup 2020 - Discussion Thread

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Hosts South Africa will open their campaign against Afghanistan in next year’s ICC U19 Cricket World Cup, a tournament that showcases the world’s future cricket stars.

South Africa, hosts in 1998 and champions in 2014, play their opening match at the Diamond Oval in Kimberley on 17 January. The United Arab Emirates and Canada are the other teams they will have to contend with in Group D of the 16-team tournament, the final of which is scheduled for 9 February.

In other matches slated over the first few days, New Zealand take on Japan who will be making their debut in an ICC global event at the North West University Oval In Potchefstroom on 18 January while defending champions India play Sri Lanka at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein on 19 January. Nigeria, who are also making their ICC event debut will face Australia in Kimberley on 20 Jan for their opening game.

Benoni and Kimberley are the other host cities for the 13th edition of the tournament, being played as per the format used in previous editions, with the second phase dividing the teams into Super League and Plate tournaments. The top two teams from each of the four groups advance to the Super League while the remaining teams feature in the Plate championship.

ICC-U19-CWC-2020-Schedule-infographic.jpg


The JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom will be a key venue as it hosts two Super League quarterfinals, both semi-finals and the final.

The top 11 full Members in the last edition in New Zealand and the five regional champions, who have qualified for the event, will also play warm-up matches from 12-15 January in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Nigeria (Africa) also make an appearance for the first time along with Japan (East Asia Pacific). Nigeria (Africa) and Japan (East Asia Pacific) are joined by other regional qualifiers Canada (Americas), United Arab Emirates (Asia) and Scotland (Europe).

ICC Head of Events Chris Tetley: “The U19 Cricket World Cup is a very important event in our calendar as it brings together the world’s most promising young players in a major ICC tournament, giving them the experience of competing on the global stage.

“We have some excellent venues for this tournament, and we are offering free entry to all matches giving cricket fans in South Africa the opportunity to watch the next generation of superstars. I wish all the teams the very best in their preparations for the tournament and to Cricket South Africa in organising the event.”

Tournament Director Sivuyile Mqingwana: “CSA is delighted to be hosting this prestigious event that further nurtures the stars of tomorrow. We look forward to hosting fans and visitors from all over the world and hope our cricketing guests and other sports tourists will enjoy both world-class cricket action, as well as the great treasures that ‘Mzansi’ has to offer.

“This ICC U19 cricket showpiece affords our country’s cricket community the opportunity to watch the world’s best young players up close and personal.”

Some of the world’s best players have showcased their talent at previous editions of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup including top-ranked Test batsman Steve Smith, top-ranked ODI and T20I batsman Virat Kohli, England Test captain Joe Root andNew Zealand captain Kane Williamson.

South Africa have seen several top players like Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Dean Elgar, Wayne Parnell, Quinton de Kock and Kagiso Rabada make it big in international cricket after first catching the eye during U19 World Cups.

Other players to have featured in past editions include Brian Lara (West Indies), Michael Atherton (England), Michael Clarke (Australia), Virender Sehwag (India) Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan) and Rashid Khan (Afghanistan).

India have won the title four times, Australia have won three times, Pakistan have won it twice while England, South Africa and the West Indies have won once each.

Groupings:

Group A: India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Japan
Group B: Australia, England, West Indies, Nigeria
Group C: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, Scotland
Group D: Afghanistan, South Africa, UAE, Canada
 
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India were embarrassingly superior in 2018. They were not tested in a single match and looked lightyears above other sides.

They are once again overwhelming favorites but hopefully other teams will be able to challenge them to a certain degree this time.
 
Pakistan have an easy group. Only challenge might be Bangladesh who have a decent U19 side.
 
Both Japan and Nigeria have very tough groups for their first ever U19 World cups. However, (after Pakistan), I will be supporting both of them and I hope both teams have a great U19 world cup
 
Pakistan placed in Group C of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020

• Pakistan to play first match against Scotland at North West University Oval in Potchefstroom on 19 January

• Pakistan’s other group matches will be against Zimbabwe and Bangladesh on 22 and 24 January, respectively

Karachi, 24 October 2019:

Two-time winners Pakistan will play Scotland in their opening match of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020 at the University Oval, Potchefstroom on Sunday, 19 January. The tournament schedule was announced today (Thursday) by the International Cricket Council.

Sixteen teams will be taking part in the 24-day tournament that runs from 17 January to 9 February 2020. The final will be played at Benoni’s JP Marks Oval on 9 February.

Pakistan’s second match will be against Zimbabwe at the Witrand Oval in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, 22 January.

The third and final group match for Pakistan will be played on 24 January at the JP Marks Oval, where the Boys in Green will square-up against Bangladesh.

The top two teams from each of the four groups advance to the Super League while the remaining teams feature in the Plate Championship.

The Super League stage will commence from Tuesday, 28 January. The top four teams from the Super League stage qualify for the semi-finals, with the winners competing for the title on Sunday, 9 February.

Pakistan won the 2004 and 2006 editions of the tournament held in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka respectively. Pakistan have also finished as runners-up in three editions.

Hassan Khan led Pakistan in the last edition of the tournament in New Zealand in 2018, where they were beaten by India in the semi-finals.

The tournament was first played in 1988. Since 1998, the event has been held once every two years. India have won the tournament four times, Australia have been winners thrice, England, South Africa and the West Indies have won the tournament once each besides Pakistan’s two wins.

The top 11 full Members in the last edition in New Zealand and the five regional champions, who have qualified for the event, will also play warm-up matches from 12-15 January in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Nigeria (Africa) make an appearance for the first time along with Japan (East Asia Pacific). They are joined by other regional qualifiers Canada (Americas), United Arab Emirates (Asia) and Scotland (Europe).
 
Pakistan will have to find new spearhead for U19 level as it looks like Naseem Shah has graduated. :wy
 
Pakistan will have to find new spearhead for U19 level as it looks like Naseem Shah has graduated. :wy

If Naseem Shah or any other u19 player plays a test/odi/t20 match for their national team can he play again for their respective u19 team at the u19 world cup?
[MENTION=93712]MenInG[/MENTION] [MENTION=79064]MMHS[/MENTION]
 
If Naseem Shah or any other u19 player plays a test/odi/t20 match for their national team can he play again for their respective u19 team at the u19 world cup?

[MENTION=93712]MenInG[/MENTION] [MENTION=79064]MMHS[/MENTION]

He can
 
i guess Afghanistan Australia Bangladesh and India will be the semi finalist
 
If Naseem Shah or any other u19 player plays a test/odi/t20 match for their national team can he play again for their respective u19 team at the u19 world cup?

[MENTION=93712]MenInG[/MENTION] [MENTION=79064]MMHS[/MENTION]

He can but I am not sure if he performs at international level Pak will be willing to do that as U19 is obviously a lower step. Recent example is of Mujeeb Ur Rehman from Afghanistan who debuted for Afghanistan in 2017 and played the U19 WC in 2018.
 
If Naseem Shah or any other u19 player plays a test/odi/t20 match for their national team can he play again for their respective u19 team at the u19 world cup?

[MENTION=93712]MenInG[/MENTION] [MENTION=79064]MMHS[/MENTION]


Anyone can play U19 WC, as long as age permits. U19 WC allows 1 year buffer (U20) for associates, therefore previously AFGs enjoyed a year extra and few of their players might have played U19 WC as International player. If I am not wrong, Shehzad played 2010 U19 WC as PAK international.
 
Priyam Garg will lead India’s 15-member squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020 in South Africa early next year.

Garg, who represents Uttar Pradesh in the domestic set-up, has already featured in 12 first-class matches for an average of 66.69 and has a double-century against his name.

The side has another teenage double centurion in Mumbai's 17-year-old opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who struck 203 in 154 balls in October in the domestic 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy.

The team have pace options in Sushant Mishra, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh and Vidyadhar Patil, while left-arm spinners Atharva Ankolekar and Shubhang Hegde, and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi are the slow bowlers picked.

India are the most successful team in the tournament, having won four editions since 1988. The latest one came last year, when the side, coached by Rahul Dravid and captained by Prithvi Shaw, defeated Australia by eight wickets. The other title wins came in 2000, 2008 and 2012.

India are pitted against New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Japan in Group A; they begin their campaign against Sri Lanka on 19 January, in Bloemfontein. The final will be played on 9 February in Potchefstroom.

India won the previous edition of the tournament in New ZealandIndia won the previous edition of the tournament in New Zealand
Dravid, who is now the director of the National Cricket Academy, recently said that the Indian outfit has a good balance overall to fare well in South Africa.

"If the conditions in South Africa aid the fast bowlers, we will have a pretty good attack. We have got batting down to seven, eight, nine. We have got spinners. We had enough competition for places, so that was nice to see," he had said.

Ahead of the tournament, India will play a three-match one-day series against South Africa U19, as well as a quadrangular series featuring the two teams, along with Zimbabwe U19 and New Zealand U19.

India's squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup: Priyam Garg (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Divyaansh Saxena, Dhruv Chand Jurel, Shashwat Rawat, Divyansh Joshi, Shubhang Hegde, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash Singh, Kartik Tyagi, Atharva Ankolekar, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Sushant Mishra and Vidyadhar Patil

India's squad for the South Africa tour: Priyam Garg (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Divyaansh Saxena, Dhruv Chand Jurel, Shashwat Rawat, Divyansh Joshi, Shubhang Hegde, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash Singh, Kartik Tyagi, Atharva Ankolekar, Kumar Kushagra, Sushant Mishra, Vidyadhar Patil and CTL Rakshan

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1512640
 
West Indies have named a 15-man squad, led by Kimani Melius, for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa in January and February 2020.

This squad features three players who also participated in the 2018 edition. Captain Melius is one of the three, alongside all-rounder Nyeem Young and bowler Ashmead Nedd. Young won the Player of the Match award in West Indies' plate quarter-final victory over Ireland last edition, scoring 55* off just 33 balls as his side chased down 279 with 10 balls remaining.

Other names include Leonardo Julien and Jayden Searles, who are part of West Indies Emerging Players in the ongoing Super50 Cup, where they play alongside Melius and Nedd.

The 15-man squad, which features a five-man pace attack keeping in mind South African conditions, will prepare for the global tournament with a tri-series at home against England and Sri Lanka.

"We have looked to develop a strong seam bowling attack and the five seamers selected all offer something different," said Robert Haynes, West Indies talent manager. "Seales and [Matthew] Forde were successful in the U19s Rising Stars Regional Tournament that took place in St Vincent and the Grenadines while [Ramon] Simmonds was the surprise package with his extra pace and bounce.

"We have also looked for batsman that are comfortable on the back foot and are prepared to play with a positive intent, Mbeki Joseph was a late addition to the squad but fully deserved his call up with a string of big scores."

West Indies, who won their only ICC U19 Cricket World Cup title back in 2016, get their campaign under way with a clash against Australia on 18 January in Kimberley.

The 16-team competition, which features tournament debutants Japan and Nigeria, kicks off with a match in Kimberley between tournament hosts South Africa and Afghanistan on 17 January. India are the reigning champions, having won the previous edition in New Zealand in 2018.

West Indies squad: Kevlon Anderson, Daniel Beckford, Matthew Forde, Joshua James, Nyeem Young, Antonio Morris, Ashmead Nedd, Mbeki Joseph, Leonardo Julian, Avinash Mahabirsingh, Kirk McKenzie, Ramon Simmonds, Matthew Patrick, Jayden Seales.

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1504888
 
PARSONS TO LEAD JUNIOR PROTEAS AT ICC U-19 WORLD CUP

Tuesday, 10 December 2019

CRICKET SOUTH AFRICA today named Bryce Parsons of Central Gauteng as captain of the national under-19 team to play in the 2020 edition of the ICC Under-19 World Cup to be held in South Africa early in the new year.

The vice-captain is Khanya Cotani of North West and the team also includes Gerald Coetzee of Free State who was a member of the team that played in the last tournament in New Zealand in 2018 and has already played franchise cricket for the VKB Knights as well as for the Jozi Stars in the MSL.

The squad will finetune its preparation during a home series against world champions India at the end of the year and in a quadrangular series that follows against India, New Zealand and Zimbabwe.

“Congratulations to all the players who have been selected as well as the management and support staff,” commented CSA Acting Chief Executive Dr Jacques Faul. “I am sure head coach Lawrence Mahatlane, his fellow selectors and our talent scouts around the country have left no stone unturned in identifying our best players in this age group and that the work done at the various training camps will be well rewarded.

“I wish our players everything of the best for a successful tournament and know that they will make us proud.

Ï would also like to acknowledge the work done by tournament director Sivuyile Mqingwana as well as by the local organising committees at our four hosting venues,” concluded Dr Faul.

“This is a very significant moment because one of our boys selected, Tarese Karelse, comes from the Standard Bank Regional Performance Centre programme we started a few years ago,” commented CSA Acting Head: Cricket Pathways, Edward Khoza. “Others have come through from focus schools, so we can see exciting talent coming through from all the various platforms of our age groups. I must also thank Momentum because they play a huge part by sponsoring our youth tournaments from under-13 upwards as well as the Friendship matches which create extra playing opportunities.

“Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) have also played their part at the RPCs and community hubs because some of the players started their journeys there before going on to top cricket schools.

“What really pleases me is that all the strategic pathways we have put in place are now starting to come to fruition. This is confirmation that we are on the right track,” added Khoza.

“I feel we have chosen a well-balanced squad that has good leadership potential in its ranks as well,” commented CSA under-19 selection convener Victor Mpitsang. “Having a player who has experienced a previous ICC under-19 World Cup tournament in Gerald Coetzee also brings significant advantages of its own.

“The advantage of playing at home also brings extra confidence into our ranks, particularly as the team has a good programme of competitive youth ODIs leading into the tournament.”

South Africa under-19s head coach, Mahatlane said: “It was a tough process selecting this squad. We went through quite a lot of players, giving quite a few players an opportunity and we are very excited with the squad we selected. There is a lot of flexibility with some special talent around, I am personally excited about this group and I am sure they will make the nation proud,” he continued.

“Bryce is a natural leader. The tone that he has set and the growth we have seen over the last couple of months, it was very natural for us to back him as a leader. He captained the side throughout the winter and we have seen a lot of growth in him, not only tactically, but also as a person. Hopefully, he will keep doing the country proud,” Mahatlane added.

SA under-19 World Cup squad: Bryce Parsons (Central Gauteng, capt), Khanya Cotani (North West, vice-capt), Luke Beaufort (Eastern Province), Jonathan Bird (Western Province), Merrick Brett (Northerns), Achille Cloete (Boland), Gerald Coetzee (Free State), Tyrese Karelse (South Western Districts), Mondli Khumalo (KwaZulu-Natal), Jack Lees (Central Gauteng), Andrew Louw (Northern Cape), Levert Manje (Central Gauteng), Odirile Modimokoane (North West), Pheko Moletsane (Free State), Tiaan van Vuuren (Eastern Province)
 
With the likes of Rohail and Naseem playing, I expect nothing but a top 2 finish for Pakistan.

I expect the 4 semi finalists to be Pakistan, India, Australia, Afghanistan/West Indies.

One of Pakistan or India will win it. God willing, maybe the tournament final will decide it.
 
New Zealand Under-19 men’s coach Paul Wiseman is forecasting a challenging few months ahead for our young cricketers, after naming a 15-strong squad for the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa early next year.

The squad boasts players from all six Major Associations, and will travel to South Africa for a warm-up tournament starting on January 3, before the World Cup officially starts for them on January 18.

Wiseman is optimistic about his side's chances at the Cup, and is eager to see how it stacks up on the world stage.

“These boys should be proud of their selection in the U19 side but they will know the hard work is ahead of them," said Wiseman.

"We saw how strong the Bangladesh U19 side were that toured here recently, and we’re expecting a highly competitive World Cup.

“We're very happy with the squad we've selected and believe the group will give us the best chance of success - but we're under no illusions how tough it's going to be.

“Teams around the world place great emphasis on this World Cup and global stars are often born from it.

"We'll have to be at our best if we want to compete against the best in the world."

After a “highly competitive” U19 National Tournament held in Lincoln over the past two weeks, Wiseman said narrowing the squad down to just 15 names was a unenviable challenge for him and the selection group.

“Naturally there’s going to be some disappointed players, but that’s just part of cricket. We'll have conversations with those who have missed out and, as has been proven in the past, this is by no means the end of their cricketing journey.”

New Zealand Cricket’s GM High Performance, Bryan Stronach, said the U19 team was part of the cricketing pathway, as opposed to an end goal in itself.

“Ultimately, from a high performance perspective, this is about growing future BLACKCAPS and selection in this team is just one step on that journey,” Stronach said.

Stronach was also keen to point out the valuable lessons and cricketing IQ players can develop from experiencing this type of tournament.

“This is a chance for the group to learn more about themselves as cricketers.

"There will be pressure at certain times throughout their time in South Africa and finding out how they react to that pressure will be valuable learning for their future cricketing endeavours.”



New Zealand ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup squad:

(in alphabetical order)

Jesse Tashkoff (c) – Wellington

Adithya Ashok – Auckland

Kristian Clarke – Northern Districts

Hayden Dickson – Northern Districts

Joey Field – Central Districts

David Hancock – Northern Districts

Simon Keene – Auckland

Fergus Lellman – Northern Districts

Nicholas Lidstone – Canterbury

Rhys Mariu – Canterbury

William O’Rourke – Auckland

Ben Pomare – Northern Districts

Quinn Sunde – Auckland

Beckham Wheeler-Greenall – Otago

Oliver White – Northern Districts



Standby Players:

Angus Sidey – Canterbury

Ryan Jackson – Wellington

Devan Vishvaka - Wellington

Lucas Dasent – Auckland

Tom Dunlop – Canterbury
 
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Australia squad announced for 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup Cricket Australia’s Youth Selection Panel (YSP), in conjunction with State Talent Managers, have selected a 15-player squad to represent Australia at the 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa.

The squad, selected at the completion of the Under 19 Male National Championships in Perth, will take part in the tournament which runs from 17 January to 9 February, 2020.

Seven players with full or rookie contracts with their state have been selected, while three players in the squad are currently contracted to KFC Big Bash League clubs.

Among those players are Victorian batsmen Jake Fraser-McGurk (rookie) and Mackenzie Harvey (full contract), both members of the Melbourne Renegades’ BBL|08 winning squad. Fraser-McGurk has enjoyed a taste of Marsh Sheffield Shield and Marsh One-Day Cup cricket with Victoria this season, while Harvey has two List A and 13 BBL matches under his belt.

Another Victorian rookie, Patrick Rowe has been named as the squad’s wicketkeeper-batsman after scoring two centuries at the Under 19 Championships for Victoria Country. He is joined by four other rookie-contracted players - batsmen Oliver Davies (NSW), Sam Fanning (WA) and fast bowlers Connor Sully and Matthew Willans (both Qld).

Recent Marsh Sheffield Shield debutant Liam Scott has been included to bolster the batting stocks, as has NSW Metro captain Lachlan Hearne, who scored 462 runs at 66 apiece to finish the U19 Championships as its leading run-scorer.

Australia will take a strong spin contingent to South Africa, with Sydney Thunder contracted Tanveer Sangha, Victoria Country’s Todd Murphy and Western Australia’s Cooper Connolly forming a potent trio.

All-rounder Connolly, the leading player from U17 Male National Championships, backed up his efforts at the U19 tournament. Representing the Cricket Australia XI, Connolly scored 396 runs and claimed eight wickets in his home state.

NSW Metro fast bowlers Liam Marshall and Bradley Simpson, plus South Australian bowling all-rounder Corey Kelly, round out the 15-man squad.

The squad will be coached by Chris Rogers, with Ryan Harris the assistant coach.

Cricket Australia National Talent & Pathway Manager, Graham Manou, said:

“We’re pleased to announce a strong 15-player squad for the upcoming 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa.

“Our squad includes players of all disciplines with experience in domestic cricket environments, with some having already made promising starts to their careers at senior level.

“The Under-19 World Cup provides these players with an exceptional development opportunity and we look forward to seeing them represent their country with distinction.

“We’re looking forward to departing for South Africa in January and demonstrating the strength of our underage talent pool against international opposition.”

The squad will assemble at the National Cricket Centre for a training camp from 5 to 9 January, before departing for South Africa soon after.

Australia’s World Cup campaign will begin in the Northern Cape city of Kimberley, where they will play three Group B matches against the West Indies (18 January), Nigeria (20 January) and England (23 January).

The top two teams from each of the four groups will progress to the top eight ‘Super League’ to determine the World Cup champions, while the third and fourth placed teams in each group will participate in the Plate League.

Australia 15-player 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup Squad

Cooper Connolly (Western Australia)
Oliver Davies (NSW Metro)
Sam Fanning (Western Australia)
Jake Fraser-McGurk (Victoria Metro)
Mackenzie Harvey (Victoria Metro)
Lachlan Hearne (NSW Metro)
Corey Kelly (South Australia)
Liam Marshall (NSW Metro)
Todd Murphy (Victoria Country)
Patrick Rowe (Victoria Country)
Tanveer Sangha (NSW Metro)
Liam Scott (South Australia)
Bradley Simpson (NSW Metro)
Connor Sully (Queensland)
Matthew Willans (Queensland)
 
I don’t have much hope from India this time.. probably Bangladesh will win this junior WC
 
Hopefully this batch of young cricketers does well and breaks through to the senior level.
 
Anyone can play U19 WC, as long as age permits. U19 WC allows 1 year buffer (U20) for associates, therefore previously AFGs enjoyed a year extra and few of their players might have played U19 WC as International player. If I am not wrong, Shehzad played 2010 U19 WC as PAK international.

Even Pat Cummins played for U19 after his Australian debut. Same for Kraigg Brathwaite
 
Will have see how good are this batch of teen bowlers are before we write them off. Batters are alright.

Indian U19 captain is probably world's best U19 batsman right now; but bowling is indeed the weak link.
 
RIP Nigeria lol stuck with England, Australia and West Indies lol. Those young WI team is always a major power house.
 
Australia squad announced for 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup

Cricket Australia’s Youth Selection Panel (YSP), in conjunction with State Talent Managers, have selected a 15-player squad to represent Australia at the 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa.

The squad, selected at the completion of the Under 19 Male National Championships in Perth, will take part in the tournament which runs from 17 January to 9 February, 2020.

Seven players with full or rookie contracts with their state have been selected, while three players in the squad are currently contracted to KFC Big Bash League clubs.

Among those players are Victorian batsmen Jake Fraser-McGurk (rookie) and Mackenzie Harvey (full contract), both members of the Melbourne Renegades’ BBL|08 winning squad. Fraser-McGurk has enjoyed a taste of Marsh Sheffield Shield and Marsh One-Day Cup cricket with Victoria this season, while Harvey has two List A and 13 BBL matches under his belt.

Another Victorian rookie, Patrick Rowe has been named as the squad’s wicketkeeper-batsman after scoring two centuries at the Under 19 Championships for Victoria Country. He is joined by four other rookie-contracted players - batsmen Oliver Davies (NSW), Sam Fanning (WA) and fast bowlers Connor Sully and Matthew Willans (both Qld).

Recent Marsh Sheffield Shield debutant Liam Scott has been included to bolster the batting stocks, as has NSW Metro captain Lachlan Hearne, who scored 462 runs at 66 apiece to finish the U19 Championships as its leading run-scorer.

Australia will take a strong spin contingent to South Africa, with Sydney Thunder contracted Tanveer Sangha, Victoria Country’s Todd Murphy and Western Australia’s Cooper Connolly forming a potent trio.

All-rounder Connolly, the leading player from U17 Male National Championships, backed up his efforts at the U19 tournament. Representing the Cricket Australia XI, Connolly scored 396 runs and claimed eight wickets in his home state.

NSW Metro fast bowlers Liam Marshall and Bradley Simpson, plus South Australian bowling all-rounder Corey Kelly, round out the 15-man squad.

The squad will be coached by Chris Rogers, with Ryan Harris the assistant coach.

Cricket Australia National Talent & Pathway Manager, Graham Manou, said:

“We’re pleased to announce a strong 15-player squad for the upcoming 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa.

“Our squad includes players of all disciplines with experience in domestic cricket environments, with some having already made promising starts to their careers at senior level.

“The Under-19 World Cup provides these players with an exceptional development opportunity and we look forward to seeing them represent their country with distinction.

“We’re looking forward to departing for South Africa in January and demonstrating the strength of our underage talent pool against international opposition.”

The squad will assemble at the National Cricket Centre for a training camp from 5 to 9 January, before departing for South Africa soon after.

Australia’s World Cup campaign will begin in the Northern Cape city of Kimberley, where they will play three Group B matches against the West Indies (18 January), Nigeria (20 January) and England (23 January).

The top two teams from each of the four groups will progress to the top eight ‘Super League’ to determine the World Cup champions, while the third and fourth placed teams in each group will participate in the Plate League.

Australia 15-player 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup Squad

Cooper Connolly (Western Australia)
Oliver Davies (NSW Metro)
Sam Fanning (Western Australia)
Jake Fraser-McGurk (Victoria Metro)
Mackenzie Harvey (Victoria Metro)
Lachlan Hearne (NSW Metro)
Corey Kelly (South Australia)
Liam Marshall (NSW Metro)
Todd Murphy (Victoria Country)
Patrick Rowe (Victoria Country)
Tanveer Sangha (NSW Metro)
Liam Scott (South Australia)
Bradley Simpson (NSW Metro)
Connor Sully (Queensland)
Matthew Willans (Queensland)

2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, South Africa
17 January – 9 February, 2020

Australia fixtures:
- v West Indies, 18 January, Diamond Oval, Kimberley
- v Nigeria, 20 January, Country Club B Field, Kimberley
- v England, 23 January, Diamond Oval, Kimberley

Plate League quarter-finals from 27 January.

Super League quarter-finals from 28 January.
 
New Zealand Under-19 men’s coach Paul Wiseman is forecasting a challenging few months ahead for our young cricketers, after naming a 15-strong squad for the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa early next year.

The squad boasts players from all six Major Associations, and will travel to South Africa for a warm-up tournament starting on January 3, before the World Cup officially starts for them on January 18.

Wiseman is optimistic about his side's chances at the Cup, and is eager to see how it stacks up on the world stage.

“These boys should be proud of their selection in the U19 side but they will know the hard work is ahead of them," said Wiseman.

"We saw how strong the Bangladesh U19 side were that toured here recently, and we’re expecting a highly competitive World Cup.

“We're very happy with the squad we've selected and believe the group will give us the best chance of success - but we're under no illusions how tough it's going to be.

“Teams around the world place great emphasis on this World Cup and global stars are often born from it.

"We'll have to be at our best if we want to compete against the best in the world."

After a “highly competitive” U19 National Tournament held in Lincoln over the past two weeks, Wiseman said narrowing the squad down to just 15 names was a unenviable challenge for him and the selection group.

“Naturally there’s going to be some disappointed players, but that’s just part of cricket. We'll have conversations with those who have missed out and, as has been proven in the past, this is by no means the end of their cricketing journey.”

New Zealand Cricket’s GM High Performance, Bryan Stronach, said the U19 team was part of the cricketing pathway, as opposed to an end goal in itself.

“Ultimately, from a high performance perspective, this is about growing future BLACKCAPS and selection in this team is just one step on that journey,” Stronach said.

Stronach was also keen to point out the valuable lessons and cricketing IQ players can develop from experiencing this type of tournament.

“This is a chance for the group to learn more about themselves as cricketers.

"There will be pressure at certain times throughout their time in South Africa and finding out how they react to that pressure will be valuable learning for their future cricketing endeavours.”



New Zealand ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup squad:

(in alphabetical order)

Jesse Tashkoff (c) – Wellington

Adithya Ashok – Auckland

Kristian Clarke – Northern Districts

Hayden Dickson – Northern Districts

Joey Field – Central Districts

David Hancock – Northern Districts

Simon Keene – Auckland

Fergus Lellman – Northern Districts

Nicholas Lidstone – Canterbury

Rhys Mariu – Canterbury

William O’Rourke – Auckland

Ben Pomare – Northern Districts

Quinn Sunde – Auckland

Beckham Wheeler-Greenall – Otago

Oliver White – Northern Districts



Standby Players:

Angus Sidey – Canterbury

Ryan Jackson – Wellington

Devan Vishvaka - Wellington

Lucas Dasent – Auckland

Tom Dunlop – Canterbury

I have played against 2 of these guys. I bowled to Oliver White and he was impossible to get out. He made a couple 90s and 100s in that district tournament. I have faced William O'Rourke and he is quick, didn't get me out though when I had to open the batting against him a few years ago. Ollie White is the NZ Cricket's CEOs son. Not a nepotistic selection though, that doesn't exist here, he is good. Played against Simon Keene too, luckily didn't have to face him cause he was rapid. I got out the ball before his spell.
 
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[MENTION=79064]MMHS[/MENTION] how can you say that Indian u19 captain is best u19 batsman in the world. I didn't even know his name without googling now. Even when i am Indian. Your knowledge about this game is really good. Is Priyam garg is that good?
 
[MENTION=79064]MMHS[/MENTION] how can you say that Indian u19 captain is best u19 batsman in the world. I didn't even know his name without googling now. Even when i am Indian. Your knowledge about this game is really good. Is Priyam garg is that good?

It's not a factual claim. Yash Jaiswal in the same team is a better batsman than Priyam for mine.
 
Scotland have announced their 15-man squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020.

Scotland went undefeated at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup Europe Qualifier earlier this year and are joined by Bangladesh, Pakistan and Zimbabwe in Group C at the global tournament, which begins next month.

Gordon Drummond, the squad’s coach, said: “The squad is excited about the opportunity to take part in the upcoming U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa. It’s a tough group but one that also presents a fantastic opportunity to take a few Full Member scalps which I know the boys are focused on achieving.

“Our squad has variety and a great team spirit which they displayed during the ICC U19s Europe Cricket World Cup Qualifier [in which Scotland finished top of the group]. They have trained hard all winter and are looking forward to the outdoor preparation in Dubai leading into the tournament.

“The players have set themselves some targets which if they play with the skill and belief, we know they can certainly achieve.”

Scotland’s campaign begins on 19 January against Pakistan. They will face Bangladesh two days later and then take on Zimbabwe on 25 January.

Squad: Angus Guy, Tom Mackintosh, Ben Davidson, Callum Grant, Charlie Pee, Daniel Cairns, Durness Mackay-Champion, Euan McBeth, Jamie Cairns, Jasper Davidson, Kess Sajjad, Liam Naylor, Rory Hanley, Sean Fischer-Keogh, Uzzair Shah

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1530663
 
It's not a factual claim. Yash Jaiswal in the same team is a better batsman than Priyam for mine.

Garg averages 67 in FC over 12 games and over 40 in List A - but that's not the main reason. IND & BD U19 have played several games in last couple of years and this guy has been the difference - I talked with one of the BCB academy coaches regarding our batting (there 3 very good prospects), and I was told this feedback.
 
Garg averages 67 in FC over 12 games and over 40 in List A - but that's not the main reason. IND & BD U19 have played several games in last couple of years and this guy has been the difference - I talked with one of the BCB academy coaches regarding our batting (there 3 very good prospects), and I was told this feedback.

Yeah, Priyam debuted for UP last season and top scored for them. I rate that guy but Yash is a cut above. If you have seen Yash bat you'd know. Him and Padikkal are frighteningly good. Of course, not making a prediction for the future, too many variables there.
 
High hopes of the Pakistan team, they stand a pretty good chance in this tournament.
 
I have played against 2 of these guys. I bowled to Oliver White and he was impossible to get out. He made a couple 90s and 100s in that district tournament. I have faced William O'Rourke and he is quick, didn't get me out though when I had to open the batting against him a few years ago. Ollie White is the NZ Cricket's CEOs son. Not a nepotistic selection though, that doesn't exist here, he is good. Played against Simon Keene too, luckily didn't have to face him cause he was rapid. I got out the ball before his spell.

You must be playing at a good level. U still playing?
 
Yeah, Priyam debuted for UP last season and top scored for them. I rate that guy but Yash is a cut above. If you have seen Yash bat you'd know. Him and Padikkal are frighteningly good. Of course, not making a prediction for the future, too many variables there.

Yashavi bulldozed all List A bowlers recently....he is a cut above and should be India's trump card batting at top!
 
Wicket-keeper batsman Akbar Ali will lead Bangladesh's 15-member squad that is set to travel to South Africa for the 2020 U19 Cricket World Cup.

Ali also led Bangladesh U19s in their recent home assignment against Sri Lanka: They claimed the five-match youth one-day international series 4-0, after the first game was abandoned without a ball bowled. The 18-year-old notched up two half-centuries in the series, and also claimed five catches behind the wicket in the third match.

He was also in good nick in Bangladesh's tour of New Zealand in October, registering two 60-plus scores in five games. Bangladesh won the youth ODI series 4-1, as Ali finished with an average of 72.50.

Tawhid Hridoy, who has scores of 82*, 123*, 115, and 111 in his last four appearances for Bangladesh U19s, has been named as Ali's deputy. The right-hander was their leading run-scorer against Sri Lanka, accumulating 431 runs at a mammoth average of 215.50. Opener Tanzid Hasan, who top-scored against New Zealand with 280 runs across five games, has also retained his spot in the side.

Left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam has been drafted into the pace contingent. The 18-year-old has 35 YODI scalps to his name since January 2018 – the most for any Bangladesh bowler in the period. Right-arm pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who leads their wicket-taking charts in 2019, has also been included. The 17-year-old returned six wickets across three games against Sri Lanka.

Right-arm off-spinner Shamim Hossain and left-arm orthodox bowler Rakibul Hasan have also been drafted into the squad. They are Bangladesh U19's second and third most prolific wicket-takers this year.

The Bangladesh U19 side will go into the 2020 World Cup with confidence, having won their last three bilateral series. They also reached the final of the U19 Asia Cup earlier this year, where they narrowly missed out against India by five runs.

Bangladesh's best returns at the U19 Cricket World Cup came in 2016, when they reached the semi-final in home conditions. They won the plate competition twice, overcoming West Indies and Australia in 1998 and 2004.

Bangladesh are in Group C of the 2020 U19 Cricket World Cup, along with Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Scotland. They will begin their campaign against Zimbabwe on 18 January in Potchefstroom.

Bangladesh squad: Akbar Ali (c), Tawhid Hridoy, Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Prantik Nawrose Nabil, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shahadat Hossain, Shamim Hossain, Mohammad Mirttunjoy Chowdhury Nipun, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Avishek Das, Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Shahin Alom, Rakibul Hasan, Hasan Morad

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1542579
 
This is the best 25 we could put and I don’t think even a single player could be changed. May be could of pacers who are officially still eligible but I guess BCB knows the inner story - didn’t take risk. Only issue is they have picked two SLAO spinner (Hasan Morad is the second one), when they should have picked a leggi; but I guess Rishad either has missed for age or injury.

First game, playing XI will be like this

1. Tanzid
2. Joy
3. Prantik (2 & 3 can swap spot, but Joy is the right handed batsman of the 3)
4. Tawhid
5. Shahadat
6. Shamim
7. *Akbar+
8. Mirttunjoy
9. Tanzim
10. Shoriful
11. Rakibul

Very good squad - 1, 2, 4, 7, 9 & 10 will definitely play for seniors, may be even as early as next ODI WC.
 
Lancashire’s George Balderson will lead England’s 15-man squad at the 2020 ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa.
The Young Lions go into the tournament in good spirits having reached the final of the Rising Stars Tri-Series in Antigua on Saturday, which featured West Indies U19 and Sri Lanka U19.

All 15 members of the World Cup squad featured in the Antigua matches, including Kent’s Jordan Cox, who scored 228 runs in the tournament, and Balderson, who was the leading seamer in the competition with 15 wickets.

Nottinghamshire all-rounder Joey Evison contributed with bat and ball, including equalling the fastest recorded U19s half-century when he reached 50 off just 18 balls in the final round robin match against Sri Lanka.

Somerset’s Kasey Aldridge finished third in the bowling charts with 13 wickets, behind Balderson and Sri Lanka spinner Kavindu Nadeeshan, and will hope to find pace and bounce in the South African wickets.

England U19 Head Coach Jon Lewis said: “I’m excited to see what this squad can do at the World Cup. It will be a great challenge for them both on and off the field, playing in unfamiliar conditions against new opposition in matches that will be televised around the world.

“The series in Antigua has shown that our core group of players can perform well in a challenging environment. Each individual is improving in their specific roles within the side, but in South Africa we’ll need to ensure these roles all come together to produce good team performances.

“We’ve seen in Antigua, and in our home tri-series this summer against India and Bangladesh, that we can beat some of the best teams in the world. I look forward to seeing how we can take that confidence into the pressurised environment of a World Cup.”

England squad for 2020 ICC U19 World Cup

George Balderson (Lancashire) - captain
Kasey Aldridge (Somerset)
Ben Charlesworth (Gloucestershire)
Tom Clark (Sussex)
Jordan Cox (Kent)
Blake Cullen (Middlesex)
Scott Currie (Hampshire)
Harry Duke (Yorkshire)
Joey Evison (Nottinghamshire)
Lewis Goldsworthy (Somerset)
Jack Haynes (Worcestershire)
George Hill (Yorkshire)
Dan Mousley (Warwickshire)
Hamidullah Qadri (Kent)
Sam Young (Somerset)

England ICC U19 World Cup warm-up fixtures

Sun 12 Jan: England U19s v Zimbabwe U19s - LC de Villiers Oval, Pretoria
Tue 14 Jan: England U19s v Afghanistan U19s - Mandela Oval, Hammanskraal

England's ICC U19 World Cup fixtures

Mon 20 Jan: England U19s v West Indies U19s - De Beers Diamond Oval, Kimberley
Thu 23 Jan: England U19s v Australia U19s - De Beers Diamond Oval, Kimberley
Sat 25 Jan: England U19s v Nigeria U19s - De Beers Diamond Oval, Kimberley
Mon 27 Jan - Thu 6 Feb: Knockout stages
Sun 9 Feb: ICC U19 World Cup final
 
Shine bright like a diamond, Zim U-19 WC cricket team told

FAST bowler Samuel Ruwisi suffered a heartbreak after he was withdrawn from the Zimbabwe Under-19 Cricket World Cup travelling squad at the last minute because of injury.

The team left for South Africa yesterday for the 16-team tournament that kicks off on January 17 in neighbouring South Africa.

Unfortunately, the 17-year-old St. John’s College pupil, who is battling a back injury, was the only casualty in the 15-member squad that was announced by the association earlier this month.

He was replaced by Nkosilathi Nungu, who makes a return to the Under-19 World Cup. Nungu played at the previous edition held in New Zealand two years ago.

“Ruwisi is the only change to the team and it must be a heartbreak for him. He went for an MRI scan and it was confirmed that he has a back injury that will not be able to heal in time for the World Cup games,” said Zimbabwe Cricket spokesperson Darlington Majonga.

Zimbabwe are in Group C along with Bangladesh, Pakistan and Scotland.

They will polish up their preparations in a warm-up quadrangular mini-series which also features giants India, New Zealand and hosts South Africa in Durban starting this Friday.

They will then open their campaign at the tournament against Bangladesh at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on January 18. Pakistan will be next on January 22 and Scotland three days later at the Witrand Oval, also in Potchefstroom.

The top two teams from each of the four groups at the tournament will advance to the Super League, while the remaining teams will feature in the Plate championship.

The tournament ends on February 9.

ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani is confident Zimbabwe will excel.

Speaking at a farewell dinner for the youth team, Mukuhlani hailed Prosper Utseya’s charges as future international stars.

“This is not just a send-off for you the Under-19 squad going to the World Cup, but this is to launch you onto the world scene.

“We are here today launching a new Hamilton Masakadza, a new Prosper Utseya, a new Tatenda Taibu, a new Heath Streak, a new Alistair Campbell, a new Murray Goodwin and a new Neil Johnson. That’s what we are here for.

“You are going to play Pakistan, a big name, it doesn’t matter. You are going to play Bangladesh, a big name, it doesn’t matter. You are going to play Scotland, it doesn’t matter.

“They must know after this World Cup that there is a captain called Dion Myers who led the Under-19s from Zimbabwe to triumph.

“You can only be Under-19 once, so it’s a lifetime opportunity that you must grab with both hands and use properly,” he said. “You must take pride when you carry the badge.

You must take pride when you carry the bird.

“There are 15 of you out of 14 million people, so you are special. You are very special. “As you journey through, you must know that “I’m special and because I’m special I must make this country special.

I must represent this country with great passion, with great determination, with great loyalty’.

“You are not soldiers of fortune. You are stars in your own right. You are here because you deserve to be here. You are not here because someone favoured you.

“Because you have that talent that God has given you, as you go through your journey you have to respect your country, to respect your teammates, to respect your opponents and to have fair play.

“In the journey that you have started, money is not the issue. It will always come. Money follows ideas. And you are a great idea. So it should not be the focus.

“You must tell yourself “I’m the best that Zimbabwe can produce” and you must create the change that you want to see and the change you want to see is a great Zimbabwe Cricket, a winning Zimbabwe Cricket,” Mukuhlani said.



Zimbabwe Under-19 World Cup squad

Dion Myers (captain), Wesley Madhevere (vice-captain), Emmanuel Bawa, Privilege Chesa, Gareth Chirawu, Ahomed Rameez Ebrahim, Dylan Grant, Brandon James, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Nkosilathi Nungu, Tadiwanashe Nyangani, Luke Oldknow, Dane Schadendorf, Milton Shumba, Taurayi Tugwete

Non-travelling reserves: Brighton Chapungu, Rodney Mufudza, Kudakwashe Macheka, Matthew Welch

Technical staff: Prosper Utseya (head coach), Greg Lamb (batting coach), Mufaro Chiturumani (analyst), Travor Wambe (physiotherapist), Moses Chitare (team manager)
https://www.herald.co.zw/shine-bright-like-a-diamond-zim-u-19-wc-cricket-team-told/
 
Had a young Sylvester Okpe not been so fond of wandering off, then perhaps Nigeria’s journey into new territory would never have been possible.

For it was while being distracted during an Independence Day celebration that Okpe, teeming with interest, stumbled across a group playing with bat and ball.

Curiosity got the better of him, so he asked what those running back and forth over 22 yards were up to. And in doing so, he got his first introduction to cricket.

Fast forward just a handful of years, and Okpe’s determination to try something new isn’t ending there. Only this time, he’ll do so as Nigeria captain at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup.

In a country where football dominates the sporting agenda, the 19-year-old’s story of stumbling into cricket is not a unique one.

Throughout the squad representing their country at South Africa 2020 – Nigeria’s first global cricket competition – very few had even seen the sport before first picking up a bat.

Some didn’t have shoes, let alone kit or equipment, for a game seen by teachers and parents as an easy way out of lessons.

For some, support from family and outside sources was minimal, with humble and sometimes poor backgrounds putting sport in perspective.

British colonial masters and missionaries first brought cricket to Nigeria in the 1900s but it’s taken time to flourish, stalling in the latter stages of the 20th century following independence.

But the past 20 years have seen the tide turn, the game brought back to life as previously active and passionate individuals rekindled their love. Only this time, they were determined to get it right for good.

The Nigeria Cricket Foundation (NCF) helped pave the way, not only bringing the talent to the fore but finding time for player welfare, sporting education, mentality and professionalism.

Sylvester Okpe bowls against Hong Kong
Sylvester Okpe bowls against Hong Kong
The result, clear for all to see, is players such as Okpe: he was only 15 when first brought into the U19 squad and hadn’t yet turned 16 when he was made captain.

By this time, coaches and management were taking their approaches long-term, with his appointment inspired by West Indies’ selection of Jason Holder as ODI skipper when aged 23.

Such a step-up would disrupt most but the talented teenager took it in his stride, his captaincy as important as the right-arm offbreak bowling that the U19 side have relied upon.

So too have Nigeria’s senior team, with Okpe named vice-captain for the 2019 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier.

Such leadership has been integral and the unity paid dividends on the pitch too, as the team went unbeaten in Division Two of U19 World Cup qualification.

In March 2019 – with a place at the U19 World Cup on the line – it was to get even better.

By their own admission, not even those at the heart of Nigeria’s journey had expected them to progress at such an impressive rate, with the following generation set to be the benchmark for success.

But Okpe and his side weren’t ones for waiting, going into Namibia’s backyard and beating the hosts in the opening game in Windhoek.

Batting first and scoring 129 for eight from 50 overs was far from a perfect start to life in Division One, particularly with just one team from six qualifying for South Africa.

But this Nigeria side is one of determination, and true to form it was the captain who delivered – figures of three for 16 helped skittle Namibia for 77 and the result sent shockwaves around the tournament.

The Junior Yellow Greens have not looked back since – a tense two-wicket win over Sierra Leone securing their U19 World Cup place, having been 91 for seven in their chase of 139.

It may have been a surprise to those watching but Nigeria, from humble beginnings, have long been a side with confidence after years of physical and mental preparation

So what of South Africa 2020 and Nigeria’s ground-breaking steps in cricket? A minimum of three games await but no challenge has come close to this one.

In Australia, England and West Indies, each of their Group B opponents have won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup at least once, and the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup five times between them.

In doing so, they’ve produced the likes of Steve Smith, Ben Stokes and Brian Lara – all esteemed alumni of U19 cricket – with players heading to Africa desperate for career-defining breakthroughs of their own.

One win would therefore be a huge achievement for a country with such limited cricket history, but Okpe and his proud nation head across the continent knowing games are won on the pitch, not on paper.

And on a journey that few before them have ever taken, they aren’t ready to stop wandering any time soon.
 
I know one Indian player Jaiswal. And the captain some what familiar as he already plays first class
 
Batting wise 2018 was Pakistan's worst team to play under 19 WC. Hopefully this time we will have better batter to support the bowlers. Haider Ali is there and captain has made tremendous improvement since 2018 and is knocking at the senior team door for the selection now.
 
I have played against 2 of these guys. I bowled to Oliver White and he was impossible to get out. He made a couple 90s and 100s in that district tournament. I have faced William O'Rourke and he is quick, didn't get me out though when I had to open the batting against him a few years ago. Ollie White is the NZ Cricket's CEOs son. Not a nepotistic selection though, that doesn't exist here, he is good. Played against Simon Keene too, luckily didn't have to face him cause he was rapid. I got out the ball before his spell.
How fast were they and projecting could they be the out and out fast bowlers NZ cricket needs?
 
Inspirational leaders reflect on fond ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup memories

If it’s inspiration that those heading to South Africa 2020 seek, they need look no further than the tournament-winning captains of ICC Under-19 World Cups past.

Batsmen and bowlers across the world have come to the fore in the competition and the leaders of tomorrow proved they can do it too, with Sarfaraz Ahmed, Aiden Markram and Josh Hazlewood among those honing their skills in previous years.

Gaining vital experience and laying the foundations for a successful career, the trio have all gone on to play integral roles across all formats, agreeing that the competition proved pivotal in their development.

Sarfaraz has been Pakistan's ODI captain for almost three years, climbing the international ladder after leading his country to victory in the U19 World Cup back in 2006.

The wicket-keeper, who snared six victims in the knockout stages en route to Pakistan’s win over India in the final, says the role of the competition cannot be overstated in stimulating young players’ development.

“It is indeed a massive platform for youngsters,” the 32-year-old said.

“Whatever I learned at U19-level helped me shape my career and the platform provided at this level was the best possible education for me leading up to my international career.

“I loved the experience of playing the U19 World Cup, I captained Pakistan in the tournament and the experience helped me immensely as I graduated to captain senior sides and eventually the rise to Pakistan men’s team’s captaincy in all three formats.

“I hope we see some exciting talent emerge not only from Pakistan but from around the world, the future stars of the next 10-15 years will get their first global exposure in South Africa and I am sure we will see some exciting cricket once the tournament begins.”

Sarfaraz is an experienced customer at international level having made more than 100 ODI appearances since his debut in 2007, but one player in the earlier stages of his burgeoning career is South Africa batsman Markram.

The 25-year-old opener has enjoyed a promising start to his international career, first catching the eye after being named Player of the Tournament at the 2014 U19 World Cup after scoring 370 runs at an average of 123.

And Markram, who compiled an unbeaten 66 not out and captained his team to victory over Pakistan in the final, believes the U19 World Cup was unequivocally influential in the growth of his career.

“It can be a big inside lane for certain players, the guys who have a great U19 World Cup, lots of guys around from different countries, you see how quickly they can get fast-tracked,” he said.

“It is exciting for players, a good U19 World Cup can potentially lead to a World Cup debut in 12 months, like Kagiso Rabada, it is exciting for them and it is an awesome opportunity for them to showcase how good they are.

“It is your first taste of what international cricket is like, you get treated, almost spoilt, life seems really amazing when you are there, people go the extra mile for you.

“It is really awesome, but I think you get a bit of an insight of how it could be for you one day.”

Another player who enjoyed a similarly successful U19 World Cup was Australia bowler Hazlewood, who has now made 44 ODI appearances and taken 72 wickets since his debut as a teenager against England back in 2010.

The 28-year-old was the youngest player in his country’s squad in the 2008 U19 World Cup but came to the fore two years later, playing a superb supporting role for captain Mitchell Marsh with four for 30 in the final against Pakistan.

And having also taken four wickets in the semi-final and two in the last eight, Hazlewood has fond memories of the competition and knows just how much the U19 World Cup did for him.

“The U19 World Cup was the first time I represented my country and confirmed in my mind that I wanted to be a cricketer,” he said.

“Once you get a taste of that, the hunger to work hard and experience that again only grows.

“Undoubtedly winning the U19 World Cup was the highlight of the tournament – we had a pretty handy side with the likes of Mitch Marsh, Nic Maddinson and Kane Richardson and we put it all together against Pakistan in the final.

“For many players, the U19 World Cup is the first time you take on some of the best players from around the world – it is a great eye opener to the hard work and preparation you need to succeed.

“You might even run into the next Virat Kohli or Pat Cummins and get some hints on how to combat them in the future.”

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1559621
 
what Chanel will this be broadcast on in the UK, sky cricket? always interesting o watch, have seen some amazing low scoring thrillers over the years in this competition.
 
Inspirational leaders reflect on fond ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup memories

If it’s inspiration that those heading to South Africa 2020 seek, they need look no further than the tournament-winning captains of ICC Under-19 World Cups past.

Batsmen and bowlers across the world have come to the fore in the competition and the leaders of tomorrow proved they can do it too, with Sarfaraz Ahmed, Aiden Markram and Josh Hazlewood among those honing their skills in previous years.

Gaining vital experience and laying the foundations for a successful career, the trio have all gone on to play integral roles across all formats, agreeing that the competition proved pivotal in their development.

Sarfaraz has been Pakistan's ODI captain for almost three years, climbing the international ladder after leading his country to victory in the U19 World Cup back in 2006.

The wicket-keeper, who snared six victims in the knockout stages en route to Pakistan’s win over India in the final, says the role of the competition cannot be overstated in stimulating young players’ development.

“It is indeed a massive platform for youngsters,” the 32-year-old said.

“Whatever I learned at U19-level helped me shape my career and the platform provided at this level was the best possible education for me leading up to my international career.

“I loved the experience of playing the U19 World Cup, I captained Pakistan in the tournament and the experience helped me immensely as I graduated to captain senior sides and eventually the rise to Pakistan men’s team’s captaincy in all three formats.

“I hope we see some exciting talent emerge not only from Pakistan but from around the world, the future stars of the next 10-15 years will get their first global exposure in South Africa and I am sure we will see some exciting cricket once the tournament begins.”

Sarfaraz is an experienced customer at international level having made more than 100 ODI appearances since his debut in 2007, but one player in the earlier stages of his burgeoning career is South Africa batsman Markram.

The 25-year-old opener has enjoyed a promising start to his international career, first catching the eye after being named Player of the Tournament at the 2014 U19 World Cup after scoring 370 runs at an average of 123.

And Markram, who compiled an unbeaten 66 not out and captained his team to victory over Pakistan in the final, believes the U19 World Cup was unequivocally influential in the growth of his career.

“It can be a big inside lane for certain players, the guys who have a great U19 World Cup, lots of guys around from different countries, you see how quickly they can get fast-tracked,” he said.

“It is exciting for players, a good U19 World Cup can potentially lead to a World Cup debut in 12 months, like Kagiso Rabada, it is exciting for them and it is an awesome opportunity for them to showcase how good they are.

“It is your first taste of what international cricket is like, you get treated, almost spoilt, life seems really amazing when you are there, people go the extra mile for you.

“It is really awesome, but I think you get a bit of an insight of how it could be for you one day.”

Another player who enjoyed a similarly successful U19 World Cup was Australia bowler Hazlewood, who has now made 44 ODI appearances and taken 72 wickets since his debut as a teenager against England back in 2010.

The 28-year-old was the youngest player in his country’s squad in the 2008 U19 World Cup but came to the fore two years later, playing a superb supporting role for captain Mitchell Marsh with four for 30 in the final against Pakistan.

And having also taken four wickets in the semi-final and two in the last eight, Hazlewood has fond memories of the competition and knows just how much the U19 World Cup did for him.

“The U19 World Cup was the first time I represented my country and confirmed in my mind that I wanted to be a cricketer,” he said.

“Once you get a taste of that, the hunger to work hard and experience that again only grows.

“Undoubtedly winning the U19 World Cup was the highlight of the tournament – we had a pretty handy side with the likes of Mitch Marsh, Nic Maddinson and Kane Richardson and we put it all together against Pakistan in the final.

“For many players, the U19 World Cup is the first time you take on some of the best players from around the world – it is a great eye opener to the hard work and preparation you need to succeed.

“You might even run into the next Virat Kohli or Pat Cummins and get some hints on how to combat them in the future.”

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1559621

First of the U19 WC took place in Australia 1988, host beating Pakistan in the final. That WC actually gave some of the greats of the game - Lara, Adams from WIN, Inzi, Mushi from PAK, Cairns from NZ, Athens, Caddick (played for Kiwis I believe) from ENG and few more... it stopped for 10 years, then restarted in 1998 and was immediate success - Trescothick, Gayle, ARazzak, Harbhajan, Sanga, Dilshan .....

Ideally, they should make U19 WC an annual event and block any player participating more than twice. It’s a brilliant event to find future greats - couple from every such WC is a success.
 
First of the U19 WC took place in Australia 1988, host beating Pakistan in the final. That WC actually gave some of the greats of the game - Lara, Adams from WIN, Inzi, Mushi from PAK, Cairns from NZ, Athens, Caddick (played for Kiwis I believe) from ENG and few more... it stopped for 10 years, then restarted in 1998 and was immediate success - Trescothick, Gayle, ARazzak, Harbhajan, Sanga, Dilshan .....

Ideally, they should make U19 WC an annual event and block any player participating more than twice. It’s a brilliant event to find future greats - couple from every such WC is a success.

1998 had shoaib Malik, Sehwag.. but don’t think Dilshan was part of that cup.. born in 1976

also Grant Eliiot played for SA in that tournament but moved to NZ coz quota..and played that epic semi knock lol.. Ben Stokes returned the favor though
 
From the emergence of India’s Yuvraj Singh and his all-round exploits in 2000, to his countryman Shikhar Dhawan’s 505 runs four years later, and the recent discoveries of Afghanistan’s Mujeeb ur Rahman and Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi in 2018, the tournament has never been found lacking for stardust.

Sri Lankan batsman, and former captain, Dinesh Chandimal is another to have dazzled at a young age on the world stage as he produced some magic behind the stumps in Malaysia in 2008 – a moment which particularly stands out in his mind.

For, despite Sri Lanka ultimately finishing eighth, Chandimal enjoyed a memorable tournament thanks to his exploits in a Group C match with an Australia side featuring Steve Smith and Phil Hughes where he was involved in seven dismissals.

Subsequently, despite only scoring six runs with the bat, he was named Player of the Match – a remarkable feat solely judged on his nimble work in claiming four catches, two run outs and a stumping.

“We played a match against Australia and I was a wicketkeeper-batsman in the team,” Chandimal said.

“I could only get six runs in that match, however, I was able to contribute by being involved in claiming seven victims as a wicketkeeper.

“For that reason I was given the Player of the Match award. It might have been the first time in history that the Player of the Match award was given solely on wicketkeeping performance.

“It is something which made my U19 Cricket World Cup experience so memorable.”

Another man who has fond memories of the tournament, having featured in both the 2000 and 2002 editions, is former Zimbabwean batsman Hamilton Masakadza, while he is expecting more memorable moments with the Chevrons squad featuring two veterans of the competition this time round.

“Playing in two Under-19 World Cups are some of my fondest memories – but watch out for two of our boys who are playing their third this time round [Milton Shumba and Wesley Madhevere],” Masakadza said.

“Winning the plate championship in 2002 in New Zealand, which was my second and last appearance at the tournament, was particularly special.

“Playing in the Under-19 World Cup was huge for my career, as it pitted me against some of the best players in the world for the first time and helped me realise how much work I needed to put in and what I needed to do if I was ever to dream about playing and surviving at the highest level.

“It is also a springboard to the national team and a huge opportunity to showcase what you can do at the world stage.

“You meet and play against some of your ‘lifetime’ competitors for the first time and a lot of career-long rivalries are birthed here.

“Lifelong friendships also start here, which for me is a very big part of playing this game.”

This year’s competition, where 16 teams from five continents are set to compete across 48 matches in South Africa, is now rolling into view and a new crop of cricketers will create fresh memories.

But while the pressure will be on for all those competing for the chance to be called world champions, Chandimal believes just getting picked to play at the event is a huge achievement in itself.

He added: “I must say it’s really an honour to play and represent your country.

“I think if you play at under-19 level, it’s a big achievement in your cricketing career, because it’s the starting step of competitive international cricket.

“A World Cup is a big event for any player, as you learn how to step up and cope with the pressure and play in certain situations, at a young age too. It is a great opportunity to step up to international cricket.

“It’s a very big opportunity, because there are lots of things to learn as a professional cricketer.

“The important thing is the experience that you have gained. If you are performing well at U19 level, it’s a bonus when you enter full international level as it gives you extra confidence and boosts you to improve your skills and abilities.”

And as the next generation of young stars gear up to show what they can do and, they hope, begin to forge a legacy for themselves, Chandimal has some advice for how these youngsters should prepare for the competition and, crucially, learn from their experiences during it.

“You need to practice hard and play harder for your country,” he added.

“At the same time you have to maintain your discipline and your character on and off the field, gain experience and make sure, whether winning or losing, that you pick the positives out of every performance to develop your cricketing career.”

And Masakadza, who played 38 Test matches and 209 One-Day Internationals for his country, also offered some words of wisdom to those competing this year in a tournament he holds so dear.

He added: “Go out and represent your countries with pride, embrace and enjoy the moment.

“It is a big achievement to have made it this far. Play hard, play to win but it’s not about winning at all costs.

“Play fair, show good sportsmanship and above all keep the game of cricket clean.”
 
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How fast were they and projecting could they be the out and out fast bowlers NZ cricket needs?

I played against Simon Keene like 5 years ago and he was probably touching 120kph back then which is really quick for that age (around 14-15 years old). I'm not sure how quick Will O'Rourke is, but he has always been the quickest or one of the quickest in my grade.
 
1998 had shoaib Malik, Sehwag.. but don’t think Dilshan was part of that cup.. born in 1976

also Grant Eliiot played for SA in that tournament but moved to NZ coz quota..and played that epic semi knock lol.. Ben Stokes returned the favor though

Could be. I am always excited about U19 WC because just couple of star from every team and couple of superstars from the tournament makes it a success. Some of the best cricketers made their first impression in U19 WC and you never know who’ll make it big later.
 
Right from the word go the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup has acted as a petri dish for the progress of cricket’s emerging nations, with an ICC Associates XI entered in the inaugural event in 1988.

From those early steps to memorable performances from Nepal, Namibia and Afghanistan in recent years, the age-group showpiece has acted as a vehicle for Associates to turn dreams into reality.

And for Canada’s Nitish Kumar, it helped him make history.

The all-rounder from Scarborough, Ontario has been representing his country for nearly a decade, starting in earnest at the 2010 U19 Cricket World Cup in New Zealand.

Kumar was thrown in at the deep end of the international game, becoming the second-youngest player in ODI history when lining up against Afghanistan in February 2010.

The U19 World Cup helped him consolidate those experiences and then equipped him for the biggest stage as he became the youngest-ever player to feature at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, figuring in Canada’s defeat to Zimbabwe in February 2011 aged 16 years and 283 days.

“It was so special to be able to represent your country at such a prestigious event as the U19 World Cup,” said Kumar, now 25.

“It was a competitive environment and we played against some of the best players in our age-group.

“To succeed at the tournament, you need clear plans and to trust your skills. You’ve made it to that stage for a reason and you must believe you’re good enough to win every game.

“It gives you an opportunity to measure your skills against the best in the world at your age. From there you are able to identify areas for improvement.”

The U19 Cricket World Cup has always been a truly global gathering and Netherlands’ Tim De Leede and Canada’s Nicholas Ifill progressed from the 1988 Associates XI to gain Men’s Cricket World Cup experiences.

In recent years Eoin Morgan, Rashid Khan, Steven Taylor, Kyle Coetzer and Mark Chapman have been some of the more recognisable names to star for Associate nations at the U19 World Cup.

Chirag Suri appeared for UAE in the 2014 tournament on home soil, where the host nation gained vital experience in a group with England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka.

Hitting a half-century as his side came close to beating the Kiwis, Suri says the event suffused his side with belief they could challenge top-ranking nations.

“This tournament definitely makes you believe in yourself as a cricketer and competing against the best only makes you a more competent and consistent player,” said Suri.

“It’s a great place to be and to see where you stand as a player on the international stage amongst the best of your age.

“It’s an incredible experience which players will share with their kids one day, you have to make every moment enjoyable and not leave anything in the changing room.

“Personally, scoring a 50 against a Test nation like New Zealand and going incredibly close against them, and facing Sri Lanka and England, really made me believe in my ability and the potential of the team.”

Associate nations will once again be out in force at the 2020 renewal of the event, set for South Africa from 17 January – 9 February.

Nigeria and Japan secured qualification for the first time through victory at Africa and EAP Division One events, while Canada, UAE and Scotland will once again take part.

Suri underlines that players who strut their stuff at the U19 World Cup have a unique opportunity – to launch their career in front of a global audience.

“The U19 World Cup can be very pivotal for the next stage of your career if you’re a young player,” said Suri.

“We have seen players doing well in these tournaments and with the confidence they get from it, going on to become the best of the world.

“Virat Kohli is a prime example. I've been following him since his U19 World Cup appearance and look at his journey until today.

“There isn’t a better platform to showcase your skills than this one.”
 
Surprise emergence has Japan believing ahead of ICC U19 Cricket World Cup

Japan boast a global reputation for productivity but their rapid emergence onto cricket’s global scene has surprised even the most positive of supporters.

Later this month, Dhugal Bedingfield’s side will rub shoulders with India, England, Australia et al, ready to pit their wits against the biggest forces in the game at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup.

But three years ago they didn’t even have an U19 team let alone one capable of sharing a global stage with players who possess IPL contacts, such as India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal and Anuj Rawat.

Still, Japan is known for creating things: cars, electronics and robots are its specialism, but in this case a pathway from school fields to international fields has been formed. Japan may not be regarded as a cricket powerhouse but it may just become one.

A summer camp in August 2017 convinced Japan Cricket there was sufficient talent and enthusiasm to build a U19 team. That came after four years of sweat, blood and toil in promoting the game after a structure was first put in place following an ICC grant for a targeted pilot participation programme.

They ambitiously bid and won the rights to stage the East Asia-Pacific Qualifier last year, selecting a young group of players they were hoping to blood for 2021.

However, they beat Samoa by 170 runs in the tournament opener and qualified with ease – going unbeaten through the tournament.

As anyone who has ever visited Tokyo can attest, things tend to happen rather quickly in Japan.

“People might be surprised that Japan is playing cricket and there might not be an historic culture in the country, but that is not to say we can’t be good at it,” said Alan Curr, head of operations at Japan Cricket.

“Eleven of the boys that played in the qualifiers are able to play again in two years, which shows how far we have come. We are two years ahead of what we expected.

“We are not expecting to knock over India but we are hoping to come away with our reputation as a cricketing nation enhanced.

“A lot of people have said how great it is but we are not there to make up the numbers. We don’t expect to tear up any trees but if we can bag a win or two then that would be great.”

It would be unwise to discount Japan. They boast plenty of talent, led by Marcus Thurgate, who scored a half-century in each of their qualifiers. He is also the team’s captain, wicket-keeper and star batsman – filling in anywhere in the top order.

Neel Date, an opening batsman, is another to look out for while off-spinner Yugandhar Retharekar has the best economy figures in the Japanese senior league last season, despite being just 16 years old.

His five for 18 helped set-up a four-wicket win against Fiji in Japan’s final qualifier, while fellow spinner Masato Morita will hope to find pitches that suit his leg-breaks.

“If we can maintain the learning curve we are on right now then we will only get better,” Curr added.

“We only meet up four times a year and we have qualified for a World Cup. We knew we would have to do a lot of work with them.

“With the tournament being in January and February, which is in the middle of our winter and there are no indoor training facilities in Japan, we have had to get creative.

“We had a coach called Rohan O’Neill come over from Victoria to work with the boys for six weeks, so they have been through some intense training and they have improved – although there is a long way to go.”

There might be. But Japan has already gained considerable ground.
 
I have just seen the TV Schedule for U19 World cup absolute appalled..all India and England matches live with even Japan and UAE ones and i dont think not even one Pakistan one....how?
 
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The International Cricket Council today announced the umpire and match referee appointments for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020, which will be staged in South Africa from 17 January to 9 February.

Experienced umpires Wayne Knights and Ravindra Wimalasiri will take charge of the opening match of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup after the officials for South Africa 2020 were confirmed.

New Zealand’s Knights and Wimalasiri of Sri Lanka – who have taken charge of 71 ODI and T20I matches between them – will officiate when hosts South Africa play Afghanistan in the Kimberley opener on January 17.

Rashid Riaz Waqar will be the TV umpire for the first of 48 games in the tournament, with a 19-strong team of match officials confirmed by the International Cricket Council.

Among those taking charge will be veteran Ian Gould, whose esteemed senior international career came to an end when he retired during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 on home soil.

The Englishman will join forces with Ahmad Shah Pakteen when India get the defence of their title underway against Sri Lanka in Bloemfontein, one of five group-stage matches he will officiate as on-field umpire.

In all, 16 umpires from 12 different countries will be on the field for five matches each in the first stage of the U19 World Cup, with eight also performing the role of TV umpire.

The list includes five umpires who looked after the 2019 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier late last year, including Sam Nogajski – who was on duty for the final between Papua New Guinea and Netherlands.

The Australian will take the reins for an historic occasion, with Japan playing their very first match in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup when they face New Zealand in Potchefstroom. Iknow Chabi, of Zimbabwe, will join Nogajski out in the middle.

Nigeria will become the 31st different team to take part in the event when they face Australia, the second-most successful side since the competition first began in 1988 as the Youth Cricket World Cup.

Bangladesh umpire Masudur Rahman Mukul and Nigel Duguid, of West Indies, will be raising their finger in that match, on January 20 in Kimberley.

The pool stages will also see an Ashes rivalry revisited at youth level, with Adrian Holdstock and Asif Yaqoob in the middle for Australia’s clash with England, also at Kimberley, three days later.

The 16 umpires will be joined by three match referees for the duration of the tournament, with former Sri Lanka international Graeme Labrooy officiating alongside home official Shaid Wadvalla and England’s Phil Whitticase.

ICC Senior Manager - Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith: “The U19 Cricket World Cup is a very important event in our calendar as it brings together the world’s most promising young players in a major ICC tournament, giving them the experience of competing on the global stage.

“We are committed to appointing the finest officials available and I have every confidence in the team travelling to South Africa for the U19 Cricket World Cup they will do a fine job. I wish them all the best.”

Umpire and match referee appointments for the knockout stages will be announced after the teams have been confirmed. The appointments for the Plate and Super League final will be finalised after the semi-finals.

The officials for the tournament are:

Umpires: Roland Black, Ahmad Shah Pakteen, Sam Nogajski, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Ian Gould, Wayne Knights, Rashid Riaz Waqar, Anil Chaudhary, Patrick Bongani Jele, Iknow Chabi, Nigel Duguid, Ravindra Wimalasiri, Masudur Rahman Mukul, Asif Yaqoob, Leslie Reifer, Adrian Holdstock

Match Referees: Graeme Labrooy, Shaid Wadvalla, Phil Whitticase

https://www.icc-cricket.com/media-releases/1563523
 
Left-handed batsman Nipun Dhananjaya, who had also featured in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2018 in New Zealand, will lead Sri Lanka in the tournament's 13th edition, beginning on 17 January in Kimberly, South Africa.

Dhanajaya didn't get a single game in the 2018 competition, where Sri Lanka finished ninth after defeating West Indies in the Plate final. The squad features 11 of the 15 members from the U19 Asia Cup held in Sri Lanka in September last year, when the hosts had finished as semi-finalists. Left-hand opener Kamil Mishara features as a lone wicket-keeper in the squad, with Navod Paranavithana slotting in as the leading all-rounder.

The batting would revolve around skipper Dhananjaya, Ravindu Rasantha, Kavindu Nadeeshan and Ahan Wikramasinghe. Chamindu Wijesinghe, Dilshan Madhushanka and Amshi De Silva slot in as the frontline seam bowlers, while Ashen Daniel will lead the spin attack with his off-breaks.

Sri Lanka are placed in Group A alongside India, New Zealand and Japan, and begin their campaign against the defending champions on 19 January in Bloemfontein. Sri Lanka's best performance in the competition came in the 2000-01 edition held at home, where they finished runners-up, going down to India by six wickets in the final.

Full squad: Nipun Dananjaya (captain), Navod Paranavithana, Kamil Mishara, Ahan Wickremesinghe, Sonal Dinusha, Ravindu Rashantha, Mohammed Shamaaz, Thaveesha Abhishek, M.A. Chamindu Wijesinghe, Ashen Daniel, Dilum Sudeera, Kavindu Nadeeshan, L.M. Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Amshi De Silva

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1563765
 
Reigning champions India will test their title credentials in Group A of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup.

With Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill among those to have stamped their authority on recent editions of the event, the next generation of Indian stars look set to be born in South Africa.

Paras Mhambrey’s men were an all-conquering force in 2019, winning the Under-19 Asia Cup in September and a Tri-Nations tournament with England and Bangladesh held on English soil.

They have not lost a bilateral series since the 2017 U19 World Cup, beating South Africa, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan away from home.

Among potential breakout stars is southpaw opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who became the youngest cricketer in the world to score a List A double century in October in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Captain Priyam Garg is well-stocked with the spin options, particularly left-armers Atharva Ankolekar and Shubhang Hegde, with Sushant Mishra leading the pace battery.

If India are the U19 World Cup’s most successful-ever team, winning four times, New Zealand is the home of the event with the famously welcoming nation having hosted the event three times, more than any other.

The Black Caps underachieved on home soil in 2018, finishing eighth, and will be looking to bounce back from recent series defeats to Bangladesh (4-1) and Australia (3-0).

They will be captained by Wellington's left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Jesse Tashkoff and coached by Paul Wiseman.

“We’re expecting a highly competitive World Cup,” said Wiseman.

“We're very happy with the squad we've selected and believe the group will give us the best chance of success – but we're under no illusions how tough it's going to be.”

Sri Lanka will aim to be in a thorn in the side of their Group A rivals and will be out to recreate their feats of 2016 that saw them reach the semi-finals in Bangladesh.

They will be high on confidence after victory in a tri-series with England and West Indies in the Caribbean just two months ago, beating England by 77 runs in the final at Coolidge.

Their batting was particularly strong in the tri-series, sporting four of the top five run-scorers in the tournament, with Kamil Mishara leading the way with 230 runs.

Leg-spinner Kavindu Nadeeshan was the best of the bowlers, snaffling 18 wickets at ten apiece and only conceding 3.39 runs per over.

Japan round off the Group A line-up, participating in a global event for the first time.

Eleven of their squad will be eligible for the 2022 U19 World Cup and their players will doubtless soak up plenty of experience from competing against established Test nations.

The team, coached by Dhugal Bedingfield and captained by Marcus Thurgate, will hope to pack a punch with off-spinner Yugandhar Retharekar capable of breaking up batting line-ups.

Group A Fixtures: 18 January: New Zealand v Japan – North West University Oval, Potchefstroom; 19 January: India v Sri Lanka – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein; 21 January: India v Japan – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein; 22 January: New Zealand v Sri Lanka – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein; 24 January: India v New Zealand – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein; 25 January: Sri Lanka v Japan – North West University Oval, Potchefstroom
 
I have just seen the TV Schedule for U19 World cup absolute appalled..all India and England matches live with even Japan and UAE ones and i dont think not even one Pakistan one....how?

Source?
 
just go on the SkySports TV Schedule and see the matches there is one match nearly every day shown from 17th January..i assume Star Sports have the same games

They have ignored Pakistan group altogether. Extremely sad


At least Pakistan vs Bangladeesh live would have been interesting
 
Three former champions and a tournament debutant will come face-to-face as Group B shapes up for drama aplenty in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup.

Australia, England and West Indies have been drawn together for the first stage of South Africa 2020 but at least one of the three cricket powerhouses will miss out on progression.

The three nations – whose senior sides have all won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup – certainly have a tough test in store but it doesn’t stop there, with Nigeria aiming for a big scalp on their U19 World Cup debut.

The momentous occasion will see Sylvester Okpe’s Junior Yellow Greens become the 31st team to compete since the tournament’s inaugural edition in 1988 when they face Australia, at Country Club B Field, on 20 January.

All Group B fixtures will take place at Kimberley, with West Indies the next challenge for Nigeria on 23 January before rounding off the opening stage against England at Diamond Oval.

Before that, the opening match at the same venue will see two former champions face off as Australia take on West Indies.

Winners of the Youth Cricket World Cup more than 30 years ago, Australia took the honour of becoming the first double champions when they prevailed at New Zealand 2002.

Eight years later they were winners again – also in New Zealand – while they head to Africa with a score to settle after finishing runners-up back in 2018.

Victoria’s teenage sensation Jake Fraser-McGurk – who doesn’t turn 18 until April – headlines the team after already making his mark in the domestic Sheffield Shield competition.

The Australian teens will be coached by Test greats Chris Rogers and Ryan Harris, with three of the squad already boasting contracts in the Big Bash League.

West Indies, meanwhile, name three players that featured in the 2018 U19 World Cup, with captain Kimani Melius, Ashmead Nedd and Nyeem Young all returning for a second tournament.

They’ll do so desperate for improvement, with the talented teens missing out in the opening pool stage before eventually finishing tenth last time out.

With Chris Gayle and Brian Lara among their U19 World Cup alumni, there’s a lot to live up to for the West Indies team – victorious for the first time when beating India in the 2016 final.

“Leading the team, I will go about the job with a high level of integrity and respect,” said Melius.

“I would like to share my experience of 2018 and lead the way with the batting, doing what I can do win matches for the team.

“I never actually liked the game of cricket before playing, but I saw an ODI match on TV between England and Australia, went and had a go and just started working hard from there.”

The group also features the added edge of an Ashes rematch, with Australia and England facing off in a Kimberley contest that could determine who reaches the next stage.

Led by George Balderson, England will be confident of a strong showing in South Africa – the location of their maiden, and so far only, U19 World Cup title in 1998.

The legends of old have moved on but the expectations have remained, with England failing to reach the final since lifting the trophy two decades ago.

The two Ashes rivals met in the quarter-finals two years ago, with Lloyd Pope the star of the show after taking eight for 35 – the best figures in an U19 World Cup match – to lead Australia to victory.

Group B Fixtures: 18 January: Australia v West Indies – Diamond Oval, Kimberley; 20 January: England v West Indies – Diamond Oval, Kimberley; 20 January: Australia v Nigeria – Country Club B Field, Kimberley; 23 January: Australia v England – Diamond Oval, Kimberley; 23 January: West Indies v Nigeria – Country B Club Field, Kimberley; 25 January: England v Nigeria – Diamond Oval, Kimberley
 
ICC have told us that the full list of broadcasters for the U19 World Cup will be published on 13th January
 
Group C Preview: Bangladesh out to impress

Bangladesh will look to bring their fine form over recent years to the big stage in Group C of the U19 Cricket World Cup.
Akbar Ali_Bangladesh U19

They will be led by captain Akbar Ali who has already declared his side can not only progress from a group containing Pakistan, Scotland and Zimbabwe but also go on to win the entire tournament.

Ali, a wicket-keeper batsman, is one of several potential stars of the future in a side which has set a high standard in the current generation.

Bangladesh have won 18 of their last 30 games in a run which includes series wins over New Zealand and Sri Lanka and three victories on English soil.

In Towhid Hridoy and Mahmudul Hasan Joy they possess the only players to score more than 1,000 runs at U19 level since the last tournament two years ago.

Shoriful Islam, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury and Tanzim Hasan Sakib will also provide ample assistance with the ball as the three leading wicket-takers at this level.

Pakistan, meanwhile, will be without Test international Naseem Shah but they won’t be short of talent, with Qasim Akram and Aamir Ali two stars of the future to watch out for.

Topping the averages in his country’s one-day youth competition last year, Akram’s batting will be something to behold in South Africa – while his right-arm off-break bowling is set to be a handy tool in the tournament, too.

Ali has similarly impressed, progressing into first-class cricket having taken 17 wickets in nine youth-level matches, with the left-arm spinner holding Sri Lanka’s Rangana Herath as his sporting inspiration.

But one of the most exciting players to watch in the entire tournament could be Mohammad Shehzad, with the opening batsman set to become one of the youngest to ever play in the ICC U19 World Cup.

Chair of Pakistan’s junior selection committee, Saleem Jaffar, believes the squad has the right make up to do well at the tournament.

He said: “Criteria for selection was current performances and meritocracy, and I am pleased it was a consensus decision.

“These players have been performing up to our expectations and I am hopeful they will carry their good form into the series and produce solid performances.”

Zimbabwe will be hoping to improve on their showing at the 2018 World Cup in New Zealand which saw them win just one of their group games.

They will be captained by Dion Myers, while Wesley Madhevere adds experience to their ranks having played in the U19 World Cup on two previous occasions.

Former senior national team captain Prosper Utseya is set to coach Zimbabwe and will see his side get their tournament underway in the group’s first game against Bangladesh.

Their squad also boasts a multi-talented youngster in the form of former U17 national team footballer Taurayi Tugwete.

Zimbabwe’s final Group C match will see them face Scotland, who return to the U19 World Cup after an absence in 2018.

A breakthrough into the upper echelons has yet to come their way but Gordon Drummond insists the side are relishing the chance to cause a few upsets in a challenging group.

“The squad is excited to take part in the upcoming U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa. It is a tough group but one which also represents the chance to take a few Full Member scalps,” Scotland’s U19 coach said.

“They (the players) have trained hard all winter and are looking forward to the outdoor preparation in Dubai leading into the tournament.

“The players have set themselves some targets which if they can play with skill and belief, we know they can certainly achieve.”
 
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Priyam Garg will lead India’s 15-member squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020 in South Africa early next year.

Garg, who represents Uttar Pradesh in the domestic set-up, has already featured in 12 first-class matches for an average of 66.69 and has a double-century against his name.

The side has another teenage double centurion in Mumbai's 17-year-old opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who struck 203 in 154 balls in October in the domestic 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy.

The team have pace options in Sushant Mishra, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh and Vidyadhar Patil, while left-arm spinners Atharva Ankolekar and Shubhang Hegde, and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi are the slow bowlers picked.

India are the most successful team in the tournament, having won four editions since 1988. The latest one came last year, when the side, coached by Rahul Dravid and captained by Prithvi Shaw, defeated Australia by eight wickets. The other title wins came in 2000, 2008 and 2012.

India are pitted against New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Japan in Group A; they begin their campaign against Sri Lanka on 19 January, in Bloemfontein. The final will be played on 9 February in Potchefstroom.

India won the previous edition of the tournament in New ZealandIndia won the previous edition of the tournament in New Zealand
Dravid, who is now the director of the National Cricket Academy, recently said that the Indian outfit has a good balance overall to fare well in South Africa.

"If the conditions in South Africa aid the fast bowlers, we will have a pretty good attack. We have got batting down to seven, eight, nine. We have got spinners. We had enough competition for places, so that was nice to see," he had said.

Ahead of the tournament, India will play a three-match one-day series against South Africa U19, as well as a quadrangular series featuring the two teams, along with Zimbabwe U19 and New Zealand U19.

India's squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup: Priyam Garg (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Divyaansh Saxena, Dhruv Chand Jurel, Shashwat Rawat, Divyansh Joshi, Shubhang Hegde, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash Singh, Kartik Tyagi, Atharva Ankolekar, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Sushant Mishra and Vidyadhar Patil

India's squad for the South Africa tour: Priyam Garg (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Divyaansh Saxena, Dhruv Chand Jurel, Shashwat Rawat, Divyansh Joshi, Shubhang Hegde, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash Singh, Kartik Tyagi, Atharva Ankolekar, Kumar Kushagra, Sushant Mishra, Vidyadhar Patil and CTL Rakshan

https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1512640

All-rounder Divyansh Joshi has been ruled out of the U-19 World Cup after having dislocated his shoulder while fielding in a Youth ODI against South Africa last month.

Siddhesh Veer has been chosen as his replacement.

The left-handed Veer scored a half-century and an unbeaten 48 in the two one-day matches he played in the recently-concluded quadrangular series in South Africa.

India squad for the U-19 World Cup

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Divyaansh Saxena, Priyam Garg (c), Dhruv Chand Jurel (wk), Shashwat Rawat, Siddhesh Veer, Shubhang Hegde, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash Singh, Kartik Tyagi, Atharva Ankolekar, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Sushant Mishra, Vidyadhar Patil.

https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cric...yansh-joshi-siddhesh-veer/article30535041.ece
 
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There is a bit of hype about this farmer's son Kartik Tyagi. Also hot pick in the IPL. We have to see how he does. I don't know much about other seamers.
 
There is a bit of hype about this farmer's son Kartik Tyagi. Also hot pick in the IPL. We have to see how he does. I don't know much about other seamers.

Some fixed single camera footage is available on south Africa cricket channel on YouTube. I was worried about quality of the bowlers but they look fine.
 
Group D Preview: South Africa look to shine on home soil

South Africa will be hoping to get their second hosting of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup off to the perfect start when they face Afghanistan in the opening match of the tournament.

The young Proteas are strong favourites for Group D and will be aiming for their second title after reigning supreme in 2014, 16 years after first playing hosts to the world’s best.

But thoughts of another victory will have to wait a while yet, with United Arab Emirates, Canada and Afghanistan set to provide stiff opposition in Potchefstroom, Bloemfontein and Kimberley.

Former U17 Cricketer of the Year Bryce Parsons has the honour of captaining his country on home soil and has been described as a ‘natural leader’ by head coach Lawrence Mahatlane.

The team also includes 19-year-old Gerald Coetzee, who took part in the previous tournament in New Zealand and has already played franchise cricket for the Knights as well as for the Jozi Stars.

“There is a lot of flexibility with some special talent around, I am personally excited about this group and I am sure they will make the nation proud,” said head coach Mahatlane.

Opponents Afghanistan will be no pushovers in the 17 January opener in Kimberley, with this their sixth successive appearance at the U19 World Cup having made their breakthrough in 2010.

The decade has seen plenty of improvement too, finishing 16th on their debut before coming fourth eight years later – a welcome progression with both events taking place in New Zealand.

Opening batsmen Ibrahim Zadran and Farhan Zakhil are the standout stars for the boys in blue.

A tally of 929 runs in 13 matches, including three centuries and five half-centuries, makes 16-year-old Zakhil one to watch, with Zadran also playing a major part in helping Afghanistan reach the semi-finals last time out.

Zadran also brings some much-needed experience to the side, having already made his senior international debut in all three formats of the game.

Afghanistan have become regular attendees at youth level but for UAE, this is just their second appearance in the U19 World Cup.

Hosts in their previous appearance six years ago, this time they will compete on merit having qualified through Asia Division 1 – largely thanks to Player of the Tournament Aryan Lakra.

A flawless record of five wins from five matches sealed their progression, with captain Lakra man of the match in the final three matches of the qualifying event.

“It is a great feeling to qualify for the World Cup,” he said.

“We had really worked hard to achieve this and feel really good when all the hard work we put in have paid off.”

Their first challenge will come in the form of Canada, who edged past rivals USA by five wickets to secure their own place at South Africa 2020.

The two countries were locked on three wins apiece heading into their winner-takes-all final match, with Canada prevailing to qualify for the seventh time in their history.

Captain Ashton returns as one of four players in the squad who also featured at New Zealand 2018, but it’s 18-year-old Raqib Shamsudeen that Canada’s Group D rivals will have to look out for.

The slow left-arm orthodox bowler was near unplayable in qualifying, with a quadruple wicket maiden against Argentina just one of the fine performances that saw him take ten wickets and concede just seven runs in the opening three games.

Group D fixtures: 17 January: South Africa v Afghanistan – De Beers Diamond Oval, Kimberley; 18 January: United Arab Emirates v Canada – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein; 22 January: Afghanistan v United Arab Emirates – North West University Oval, Potchefstroom; 22 January: South Africa v Canada – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom; 24 January: Afghanistan v Canada – Ibbies Oval, Potchefstroom; 25 January: South Africa v United Arab Emirates – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein
 
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ICC have confirmed to us that no U19 World Cup warmup games will be streamed or televised.
 
This Under19 World Cup will feel more like an actual World Cup than last years World Cup did, since there are a variety of teams, more knockouts.
 
The sad fact is that we are not sure which players are genuine U19 and which are cheating from the SC teams. For example there will be players that are in their mid 20`s that are playing as U19, and that lie is brought by everyone.
 
Looking at pictures of current Pakistan under 19 players , no doubt all of them look under 19, mostly around 17-18 range , so I don’t think any of them is over age but not sure about a player 14-15 year old , hard to believe that .
 
Makhaya Ntini: Players to watch for South Africa 2020

I'm now really excited for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup to begin – and I’ve got a good idea of the players to look out for during the tournament.

There are a few young players who have been going around and doing very well for themselves recently.

I think South Africa have got some exciting young players – a lot of them have done very well and are ready to represent the country on the big stage.

Jonathan Bird is definitely one of the greatest young players in South Africa currently. He grew up in a very good school, and has been doing well over the past couple of years.

There’s also Gerald Coetzee who’s a good all-rounder – he’s been involved in franchise cricket recently for Jozi Stars, which has really been able to benefit him as well as being part of the national setup.

Khanya Cotani is another young fellow who is doing very well, and he’s obviously the South Africa vice-captain – he’s the type of player who I’m really excited to see.

As the host nation, South Africa don’t want to be in a position where they get knocked out in the group stages or get to the quarter-finals and get beaten. If they can do well and get to the final, it will make a massive difference for those youngsters.

In terms of other nations, I’ve watched the India team in training and I look at those young fellows and how well they conduct themselves – it’s almost like they are in the tournament already and their tournament mindset has already kicked in.

It was one of the greatest things seeing those youngsters training and putting themselves together – they were playing the game so well, and it was almost like I was watching the Indian senior team as they looked very slick.

I think the thing with the whole Indian squad is that they have already been part of the Indian system – they have certain players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravi Bishnoi, Kartik Tyagi and Akash Singh who are set to play in the IPL. They have already been groomed to represent India as a nation when they grow older.

Pakistan, too, have a lot of exciting players and I’m looking forward to seeing how Rohail Nazir performs with the bat.

As captain of his country, there will be some pressure on his shoulders but at 18, he’s already shown himself to be a very strong player and a leader too, both in the field and with the bat.

Rohail has already played first-class and List A cricket and was on a good run of form late in 2019, so it’ll be exciting to see how he goes against some world-class bowlers.

England will also be an exciting team to watch, and a lot of their players already have a lot of experience in the domestic game.

Ben Charlesworth is one of them, introduced to the first XI at just 17 and it’s big-match experience which will prove so important for players and teams.

He helped Gloucestershire win promotion in England so he knows what it takes to win, and his batting is supported with some part-time bowling as well which could come in handy as the tournament goes on.

As a batsman, Jordan Cox fits a similar bill – he’s played with and against some of the best players in the world in the English T20 competition, and he’ll have learnt so much just by being on the same pitch.

Cox is in some good form as well, scoring big against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh late last year so he should go to South Africa with confidence – he’s playing players he’s faced before and he’s shown he can do it, it’s just about transferring his talent to the big stage.

That’s the challenge for all the players in the coming weeks. They’ve shown they can do it, they wouldn’t be in their squads otherwise, but now it’s about converting their talent into temperament with the pressure on.

Whoever does that the best will have a strong chance of inspiring their country to victory.
 
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Pakistan team training and practice session underway at the Irene Country Club - Pretoria

<iframe src="https://streamable.com/s/i7kni/chnwnd" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
Makhaya Ntini: Players to watch for South Africa 2020

I'm now really excited for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup to begin – and I’ve got a good idea of the players to look out for during the tournament.

There are a few young players who have been going around and doing very well for themselves recently.

I think South Africa have got some exciting young players – a lot of them have done very well and are ready to represent the country on the big stage.

Jonathan Bird is definitely one of the greatest young players in South Africa currently. He grew up in a very good school, and has been doing well over the past couple of years.

There’s also Gerald Coetzee who’s a good all-rounder – he’s been involved in franchise cricket recently for Jozi Stars, which has really been able to benefit him as well as being part of the national setup.

Khanya Cotani is another young fellow who is doing very well, and he’s obviously the South Africa vice-captain – he’s the type of player who I’m really excited to see.

As the host nation, South Africa don’t want to be in a position where they get knocked out in the group stages or get to the quarter-finals and get beaten. If they can do well and get to the final, it will make a massive difference for those youngsters.

In terms of other nations, I’ve watched the India team in training and I look at those young fellows and how well they conduct themselves – it’s almost like they are in the tournament already and their tournament mindset has already kicked in.

It was one of the greatest things seeing those youngsters training and putting themselves together – they were playing the game so well, and it was almost like I was watching the Indian senior team as they looked very slick.

I think the thing with the whole Indian squad is that they have already been part of the Indian system – they have certain players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravi Bishnoi, Kartik Tyagi and Akash Singh who are set to play in the IPL. They have already been groomed to represent India as a nation when they grow older.

Pakistan, too, have a lot of exciting players and I’m looking forward to seeing how Rohail Nazir performs with the bat.

As captain of his country, there will be some pressure on his shoulders but at 18, he’s already shown himself to be a very strong player and a leader too, both in the field and with the bat.

Rohail has already played first-class and List A cricket and was on a good run of form late in 2019, so it’ll be exciting to see how he goes against some world-class bowlers.

England will also be an exciting team to watch, and a lot of their players already have a lot of experience in the domestic game.

Ben Charlesworth is one of them, introduced to the first XI at just 17 and it’s big-match experience which will prove so important for players and teams.

He helped Gloucestershire win promotion in England so he knows what it takes to win, and his batting is supported with some part-time bowling as well which could come in handy as the tournament goes on.

As a batsman, Jordan Cox fits a similar bill – he’s played with and against some of the best players in the world in the English T20 competition, and he’ll have learnt so much just by being on the same pitch.

Cox is in some good form as well, scoring big against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh late last year so he should go to South Africa with confidence – he’s playing players he’s faced before and he’s shown he can do it, it’s just about transferring his talent to the big stage.

That’s the challenge for all the players in the coming weeks. They’ve shown they can do it, they wouldn’t be in their squads otherwise, but now it’s about converting their talent into temperament with the pressure on.

Whoever does that the best will have a strong chance of inspiring their country to victory.

No mention of my man Jack Haynes. I have known Jack since he was at 1st school
 
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