The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially unveiled its 15-player squad that will carry the nation's hopes at the prestigious ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026. The tournament is scheduled to be held in Zimbabwe, marking a significant challenge and opportunity for the next generation of Pakistani cricketing talent.
Leadership and Core Squad Composition
Left-arm spinner Ali Asfand has been entrusted with the captaincy, signaling the team's strategic focus on leadership from the bowling department. He will be supported by wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Zeeshan, who has been appointed as the vice-captain. The squad is a blend of promising batters, all-rounders, and a varied bowling attack, selected after extensive domestic competitions and a training camp in Karachi.
The selected players for the Pakistan U19 World Cup squad are: Ali Asfand (captain), Mohammad Zeeshan (vice-captain & wicketkeeper), Aimal Khan, Ali Razza, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Hassan Ali, Khubaib Khalil, Mohammad Danish, Mohammad Ibtisam, Mohammad Tayyab Arif, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Shahzaib Khan, Shamyl Hussain, and Uzair Mumtaz.
Road to Zimbabwe and Tournament Schedule
The team's journey to the global event will begin with a preparation camp in Lahore starting December 10, 2024. Following this intensive training period, the young Shaheens will depart for Zimbabwe on December 29, 2024. Their campaign in the World Cup kicks off on January 19, 2026, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.
This early announcement, made well in advance, provides the squad with ample time to gel as a unit and build the necessary chemistry required for success on the world stage. The PCB's move underscores a structured, long-term approach to developing youth talent, aiming to replicate the past successes of Pakistani teams in the U19 arena.
Strategic Implications and Future Prospects
The selection of this squad is more than just a team announcement; it is a critical step in Pakistan's cricket future pipeline. The ICC U19 Men's World Cup has historically been a proven launching pad for international careers, with many of Pakistan's current stars having graduated from this very platform. The board and selectors will be hoping that this group of players can not only perform admirably in Zimbabwe but also form the core of the national side in the years to come.
The focus will now shift to the preparatory camp, where coaches will work on refining skills, strategies, and mental toughness. The challenge of adapting to Zimbabwean conditions will be paramount. For fans and analysts, this squad offers the first glimpse of the potential future heroes of Pakistan cricket, making their progress in the lead-up to and during the ICC U19 Men's World Cup 2026 a storyline to follow closely.
