The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has officially announced the 15-player squad for the 2026 ICC Men’s U19 World Cup, with Somerset’s rising star Thomas Rew named as captain. The tournament, set to be hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, will see England’s “Young Lions” look to reclaim the trophy they last won in 1998.
Thomas Rew takes the helm
Rew, a prolific wicketkeeper-batter, has been a standout performer in the youth circuit, recently making headlines with a record-breaking 73-ball century against India U19s earlier this year. Having already gained experience with the England Lions, Rew’s leadership is seen as pivotal for a squad brimming with county experience.
He will be supported by Nottinghamshire all-rounder Farhan Ahmed, who has been named vice-captain. Ahmed, the younger brother of England senior international Rehan Ahmed, recently led the side during the youth ODI series in the West Indies.
Fresh faces and proven talent
The squad features a mix of established domestic names and exciting new prospects. Leicestershire’s left-arm spinner Ali Farooq earns his first call-up to the national youth side after impressive performances in the second XI championship. Other notable inclusions include Surrey’s Ralphie Albert and Alex French, both of whom have already made their professional debuts in the Metro Bank One Day Cup.
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Group C and tournament outlook
England have been placed in Group C alongside co-hosts Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and Scotland. They are scheduled to play all their group-stage matches at the Takashinga Sports Club in Harare. The tournament officially begins on January 15, 2026, with the final scheduled to take place at the historic Harare Sports Club on February 6.
England squad for U19 World Cup 2026: Thomas Rew (c), Farhan Ahmed, Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores, Sebastian Morgan.
Also READ: Australia name strong squad for U19 World Cup 2026, Oliver Peake to lead
