Harare | December 16, 2025

The countdown to the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 officially began on Monday with the unveiling of the tournament trophy at a special ceremony held in Harare. The global age-group event will be jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia and is scheduled to take place from January 15 to February 6, 2026. The tournament will feature 16 teams from around the world, including Tanzania, who will be making their debut in the competition.

The trophy unveiling marked an important milestone in the build-up to the tournament and highlighted Africa’s growing role in hosting major international cricket events. The ceremony brought together officials, former players, and administrators, reflecting the excitement and anticipation surrounding the championship.

Former Zimbabwe captain Tatenda Taibu was announced as the official tournament ambassador. Taibu, who represented Zimbabwe in the Under-19 World Cup before going on to enjoy a successful international career, is expected to play a key role in inspiring young cricketers. Over the course of his career, he made 195 international appearances across formats and remains one of Zimbabwe’s most respected cricket figures. Organisers said his journey from youth cricket to the highest level makes him an ideal role model for the next generation.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, acting Permanent Secretary Cynthia Mawema described the tournament as a historic moment for African cricket. She said the Under-19 World Cup would be more than just a sporting event, calling it a global celebration of young talent and opportunity.

“This is not just another tournament on the cricket calendar,” Mawema said. “It is a global festival of youthful brilliance. Zimbabwe and Namibia will host an experience that will be remembered for years.” She added that the event would inspire young people, strengthen cricket development pathways, attract new fans, and help showcase Zimbabwe as a world-class sporting destination ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027.

Zimbabwe Cricket Vice Chairman Sylvester Matshaka, speaking on behalf of Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani, thanked the International Cricket Council for once again trusting the country to host a major global event. He said Zimbabwe Cricket was committed to delivering a successful and memorable tournament in partnership with Namibia.

Tournament Director Hamilton Masakadza provided an update on preparations, saying that planning in Harare and Bulawayo was progressing smoothly. He confirmed that venues, accommodation, and logistics were firmly in place and that organisers were confident of meeting all international standards. Masakadza also announced that entry to all matches would be free of charge, a move aimed at encouraging fans from across the country to attend and support the young cricketers.

In Zimbabwe, matches will be hosted at Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Cricket Club, and Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Namibia will stage its matches in Windhoek, giving fans in both countries the chance to witness top-level youth cricket.

As part of the build-up to the event, the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy will go on a national tour. The trophy will travel to Masvingo, Bulawayo, and Harare between January 4 and January 7, allowing fans and aspiring cricketers to see the symbol of youth cricket’s biggest prize up close.

Defending champions Australia will enter the tournament aiming to retain their title after lifting the trophy in the 2024 edition, where they defeated India in the final. With several traditional cricketing powers and emerging teams set to compete, the 2026 Under-19 World Cup is expected to showcase exciting talent and future international stars.

With less than a month to go, the trophy unveiling has set the tone for what promises to be a vibrant and memorable tournament, celebrating young talent while strengthening cricket’s footprint across Africa.

ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 Countdown Begins with Trophy Unveiling Ceremony in Harare

The excitement for the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 officially kicked off as the tournament trophy was unveiled at a special ceremony in Harare. The event marks the beginning of the countdown to the global youth tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6, 2026.

The competition will feature 16 teams from across the world, including Tanzania, who will be making their debut at the Under-19 World Cup. The tournament is being seen as a major moment for African cricket, highlighting the continent’s growing role in hosting international events and nurturing young talent.

Former Zimbabwe captain Tatenda Taibu was named the official tournament ambassador. Taibu, who once represented Zimbabwe at the Under-19 level, went on to play 195 international matches and is regarded as one of the country’s most respected cricketers. His journey from age-group cricket to the international stage is expected to inspire young players taking part in the tournament.

Speaking at the ceremony, acting Permanent Secretary Cynthia Mawema, representing the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, called the tournament a global celebration of young talent. She said the event would inspire youth, strengthen cricket development pathways, attract new fans, and showcase Zimbabwe as a world-class sporting nation ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

Zimbabwe Cricket Vice Chairman Sylvester Matshaka thanked the ICC for trusting the country once again to host a major tournament. Tournament Director Hamilton Masakadza said preparations in Harare and Bulawayo are on track, with venues, accommodation and logistics ready. He also announced that entry to all matches will be free to encourage fans to attend.

Matches in Zimbabwe will be played at Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Cricket Club and Queens Sports Club, while Namibia will host games in Windhoek. The trophy will tour Masvingo, Bulawayo and Harare from January 4 to 7. Defending champions Australia will aim to retain their title after winning the 2024 edition.