Cricket West Indies has officially revealed its 15-member Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 squad set to compete in the prestigious 2026 ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup across Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6, 2026.
The selection represents the culmination of an extensive talent identification process that evaluated performances throughout regional competitions and critical international preparatory series. The young squad demonstrated exceptional form by securing consecutive series victories against formidable opponents—defeating England 5-2 in a recent Grenada-hosted Youth ODI series and overcoming Sri Lanka 4-3 in August-September encounters.
Leadership duties fall upon top-order batter Joshua Dorne, whose appointment as captain recognizes his outstanding performances across both regional circuits and youth international fixtures. Supporting him as vice-captain is all-rounder Jonathan van Lange, forming a strategic leadership duo.
The squad boasts significant international experience with several players having previously represented West Indies at youth level. Notably, Jewel Andrew brings valuable insight from the 2024 edition and has already made history as the youngest player to represent the senior team in both T20Is and ODIs.
CWI’s High Performance Manager Dwain Gill emphasized the strategic approach behind squad selection: “This group emerges from a deliberate, well-structured preparation and evaluation process. We meticulously monitored performances in Under-17 and Under-19 regional competitions, prioritizing identification of players with specialized skills and the adaptability essential for international cricket.”
Gill expressed confidence in the selected team, stating: “The outcome is a balanced and competitive squad, optimally positioned to excel at the Under-19 World Cup while contributing meaningfully to West Indies cricket’s long-term future.”
The team’s core strength draws from experienced players including Zachary Carter, Matthew Miller, Jakeem Pollard, Shaquan Belle, and Vitel Lawes—all instrumental in the recent home series triumphs. Emerging talents Micah McKenzie and Shamar Apple have secured their positions following impressive debuts in senior competitions and late-series inclusions against England.
West Indies will contest Group D matches against South Africa, Afghanistan, and Tanzania at Windhoek’s High-Performance Oval. Preparatory warm-up matches against Ireland and Japan are scheduled for January 10 and 13 respectively. The tournament structure will see top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six phase, culminating in semi-finals on February 3-4 and the championship final at Harare Sports Club on February 6.
Full Squad: Joshua Dorne (captain), Jewel Andrew, Shamar Apple, Shaquan Belle, Zachary Carter, Tanez Francis, R’jai Gittens, Vitel Lawes, Micah McKenzie, Matthew Miller, Isra-el Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Kunal Tilokani, Jonathan Van Lange
Reserves: Brendan Boodoo, Tyriek Bryan, Earsinho Fontaine, Deshawn James
Management Team: Head Coach Rohan Nurse, Assistant Coaches Jerome Taylor and Nikita Miller, Physiotherapist Kwayne Dalrymple, Strength & Conditioning Coach Shayne Cooper, Team Doctor Dr. Dwain Archibald, Manager Clint St Hill