New Zealand Opt to Bowl First in Crucial U19 World Cup Super Six Encounter
In a significant development at the ongoing ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026, New Zealand Under-19 skipper Tom Jones won the toss and decided to field first against England in their Super Six Group 2 match. The high-stakes clash is being held at the historic Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, today.
Playing XIs Announced for Both Teams
The team line-ups have been officially declared, with both sides fielding competitive squads for this pivotal encounter in the tournament's knockout stages.
England Under-19 Playing XI
The English side, led by captain and wicketkeeper Thomas Rew, features a balanced combination of batting and bowling talent:
- Ben Dawkins
- Joseph Moores
- Ben Mayes
- Thomas Rew (wicketkeeper/captain)
- Caleb Falconer
- Ralphie Albert
- Farhan Ahmed
- Sebastian Morgan
- James Minto
- Manny Lumsden
- Alex Green
New Zealand Under-19 Playing XI
The Kiwi team, under the leadership of Tom Jones, presents a formidable challenge with their chosen playing eleven:
- Aryan Mann (wicketkeeper)
- Hugo Bogue
- Tom Jones (captain)
- Snehith Reddy
- Jaskaran Sandhu
- Callum Samson
- Selwin Sanjay
- Mason Clarke
- Harry Burns
- Hunter Shore
- Brandon Matzopoulos
Tactical Decision in Bulawayo Conditions
The decision to bowl first by New Zealand captain Tom Jones suggests a strategic approach considering the pitch conditions at Queens Sports Club. This choice indicates the Kiwi team's confidence in their bowling attack to restrict the English batsmen early in the match. The Super Six stage of the tournament adds extra pressure, with every match crucial for progression to the semi-finals.
The ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 has reached its critical phase, where teams must perform consistently to advance. This England versus New Zealand encounter promises to be an exciting contest between two talented youth squads, both aiming to make their mark on the global stage.
