The ICC Under 19 World Cup 2024 is just around the corner, set to commence on January 19, featuring a thrilling double-header between hosts South Africa facing off against the West Indies, and Ireland taking on the USA.
The 15th edition promises an exciting showcase of emerging talents from 16 nations, engaging in a total of 48 matches across five venues that will shape the future of international cricket.
Before the action unfolds, here is the comprehensive guide to the upcoming World Cup.
Group Stage Lineup:
Group A: Bangladesh, India, Ireland, USA
Group B: England, Scotland, South Africa, West Indies
Group C: Australia, Namibia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe
Group D: Afghanistan, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan
New Format Excitement:
This edition introduces a fresh format, elevating the competition. The top three teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage, commencing on January 30. Two groups of six teams will fiercely clash to determine the semi-finalists and eventually the finalists. Meanwhile, the bottom-placed teams will engage in placement games to decide positions 13 to 16.
Remarkably, this marks South Africa’s third time hosting the Under 19 World Cup, following previous editions in 1998 and 2020. To gear up for the challenge, all participating teams will undergo two warm-up fixtures in South Africa between January 13 and 17.
Crucial Dates:
The tournament kicks off with Group A and Group B action on January 19. Ireland faces the USA in Bloemfontein, while hosts South Africa lock horns with the West Indies in Potchefstroom. Group D’s opening match between Afghanistan and Pakistan unfolds on January 20 in East London, and Group C, stationed in Kimberley, begins on January 21 with Sri Lanka taking on Zimbabwe.
As the competition intensifies, attention shifts to the Super Six stage from January 30. Top three teams from Groups A and D merge with their counterparts from Groups B and C. The teams play two matches in this phase, strategically avoiding the team that finished in the corresponding position in the other group.
Semi-finals are scheduled for February 6, leading up to the grand finale on February 11, all set to take place at Willowmoore Park in Benoni.
History:
Originating in 1988 as the “Youth Cricket World Cup,” Australia emerged as the inaugural champions. The tournament saw a decade-long hiatus before resuming in South Africa, where England claimed victory in 1998.
India, the defending champions, have been the most successful side with five titles, followed by Australia with three. Pakistan secured two triumphs in 2004 and 2006, while Bangladesh, England, South Africa, and West Indies have each celebrated victory once.
