
Thu Jan 15 08:30:00 UTC 2026: # India U19 Faces USA in World Cup Opener, Eyes Sixth Title
The Story:
The Indian U19 cricket team commenced its campaign in the 2026 U19 World Cup with a match against the United States of America. Held at the Queen’s Sports Club in Bulawayo, the USA, after losing the toss and batting first, set a target of 108 runs for India. The Indian team, in pursuit of the target, reached 21 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 4 overs at the time of the report. Opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi was dismissed early for 2 runs. The tournament is co-hosted by Namibia and Zimbabwe, with India aiming to secure its sixth U19 World Cup title.
Key Points:
- The match took place on January 15, 2026, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
- USA scored 107 runs in 35.2 overs after losing the toss and being put in to bat.
- India’s chase reached 21/1 in 4 overs.
- Henil Patel took 5 wickets for India.
- Nitish Sudini top-scored for USA with 36 runs.
- India defeated USA by 201 runs in their last U19 World Cup encounter in 2024.
- India is placed in Group A alongside New Zealand, USA, and Bangladesh.
Key Takeaways:
- India is considered the favorite in the match, given their historical dominance in U19 cricket and their previous victory against the USA.
- The early dismissal of Vaibhav Suryavanshi puts slight pressure on the Indian batting lineup.
- Henil Patel’s impressive bowling performance restricts the USA to a low score.
- Winning the opening match is crucial for setting the tone for the rest of the tournament.
- India’s group matches are all scheduled to be played in Bulawayo.