Azizul Hakim Appointed Captain for Under-19 World Cup

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially confirmed its 15-man squad for the 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup, appointing the talented Azizul Hakim to lead the young Tigers on the global stage. This announcement sets the gears in motion for a high-stakes campaign, with the squad scheduled to depart Dhaka this coming Sunday for Zimbabwe. As one of the joint-host nations, Zimbabwe, alongside Namibia, will provide the backdrop for this prestigious biennial tournament, which serves as the ultimate proving ground for the next generation of international cricketing stars.

Bangladesh has been placed in Group A, a challenging bracket that will require immediate consistency and tactical discipline. Their quest for silverware begins on 17th January with a high-profile encounter against India, a fixture that has developed into a fierce rivalry at the youth level. Following the opening clash, Hakim’s men will face New Zealand on 20th January before concluding their group-stage obligations against the United States on 23rd January. These matches will be crucial in determining their path toward the knockout rounds, as they look to better their sixth-place finish from the 2024 edition.

The 2026 tournament marks Bangladesh’s 15th appearance in the competition, a journey highlighted by their historic World Cup triumph in 2020 and a semi-final finish in 2016. To bolster this year’s ambitions, the selectors have opted for a blend of fresh energy and experienced heads. Most notably, the squad includes two returning players from the previous campaign: pace bowler Iqbal Hossain and off-spinner Sheikh Paevez Jibon. Their familiarity with the pressures of a World Cup environment is expected to be a vital asset for Hakim, who will also be assisted by vice-captain Jawad Abrar.

As Namibia and Zimbabwe prepare to co-host this event—a precursor to their shared hosting duties for the 2027 senior ODI World Cup—the atmospheric conditions of Southern Africa will play a significant role. The Bangladeshi coaching staff has emphasised the importance of early acclimatisation, particularly given the varying bounce and pace expected in the African highveld. With a robust 15-member primary squad and a further seven players named as reserves, the BCB has ensured a depth of talent is available should injuries occur during the intense tournament schedule.

Bangladesh Under-19 World Cup Squad and Schedule