The ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup begins on January 15 across Zimbabwe and Namibia, with India Under-19 cricket team once again wearing the favourites’ tag. India have dominated the tournament’s history, winning it a record five times and reaching the final in each of the last five editions.

Led by Ayush Mhatre, India arrive with depth, balance and extensive preparation, having played 21 Youth ODIs since their final loss to Australia in 2024. Much of the spotlight will be on 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose fearless power-hitting has already drawn comparisons with past U19 stars who graduated to the senior level.

India’s batting strength is bolstered by Abhigyan Kundu, the first Indian to score a double century in Youth ODIs, while Vihaan Malhotra and Aaron George add stability to the middle order. The bowling attack, featuring pacer Deepesh Devendran and all-rounders R.S. Ambrish and Kanishk Chouhan, gives India multiple match-winning options.

However, India will face stiff competition. Pakistan Under-19 cricket team arrive brimming with confidence after winning the U19 Asia Cup. Captain Farhan Yousaf and Player of the Tournament Sameer Minhas headline a side that peaked at the right time, while seamers like Abdul Subhan and Ali Raza add bite with the ball.

Bangladesh Under-19 cricket team could also spring a surprise. Well prepared through tours of England and Zimbabwe, Bangladesh boast a strong pace attack led by Iqbal Hossain Emon and a batting unit seeking consistency after encouraging Asia Cup performances.

Defending champions Australia Under-19 cricket team, captained by Oliver Peake, remain a formidable force with proven depth, while England, South Africa and Afghanistan add further strength to a highly competitive field.

Among the outsiders, Japan and Tanzania have caught attention with impressive qualifying campaigns and could upset more established sides.

India begin their campaign against the USA in Bulawayo, with a high-profile group clash against Bangladesh to follow. As the tournament unfolds across Harare, Bulawayo and Windhoek, the question remains: can India convert their dominance into a sixth world title, or will rivals like Pakistan or Bangladesh derail their charge?