England announce squad for ICC U19 World Cup 2026

England have announced their squad for the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 as they look to end their long wait for another U19 title. England last won the tournament in 1998 under Owais Shah, with Graeme Swann also part of that famous squad. Since then, the Three Lions have reached only one final, which came in 2022.

For the 2026 edition, 18-year-old Somerset wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew has been named captain. He will be supported by 17-year-old Farhan Ahmed, the younger brother of Rehan Ahmed, who has been appointed vice-captain. Farhan recently led the side during their seven-match series against the West Indies.

England has selected a squad that combines county experience with young talent. The team management believes this group has the right balance to compete strongly in Zimbabwe, where the tournament will be played.

Key Players to Watch and Coach’s View

Batters Ben Dawkins of Kent and Caleb Falconer of Middlesex are among the key players in the squad. Both have impressed at age-group level and were expected selections. One notable absence is Middlesex medium pacer Jack Nelson, who took eight wickets in four matches against the West Indies.

Young Lancashire bowler Luke Hands, who has just turned 17, will be another player to keep an eye on. Along with him, 18-year-old all-rounder Ralphie Albert and top-order batter Isaac Mohammed add depth and variety to England’s squad.

Head coach Mike Yardy expressed confidence in the group and said, “We have a balanced squad with a core group of players who already have county experience and who have developed a camaraderie while playing together for the U19s that will serve them well during the tournament. I really want the players to enjoy the opportunity to play at a World Cup, in a beautiful country like Zimbabwe, and to embrace the chance to compete against different countries and show their quality.”

England are placed in Group C alongside Pakistan, Scotland, and Zimbabwe. They will begin their campaign with a high-profile match against Pakistan on Friday, January 16.

England Squad for U19 World Cup 2026

Thomas Rew (c) (wk), Farhan Ahmed (vc), Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores and Sebastian Morgan.