Rio Claro cricket prodigy Aadian Racha stands on the precipice of international acclaim as the sole Trinidadian representative selected for West Indies’ 15-man squad competing in the 2026 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup across Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6. The lanky all-rounder, whose right-arm fast bowling complements his left-handed batting prowess, has emerged from Trinidad’s youth cricket system to secure his position among the region’s most promising talents.
Racha’s selection culminates a year of demonstrated excellence during Youth ODI series victories against Sri Lanka (4-3) and England (5-2). Across eight appearances, the 19-year-old delivered compelling performances with both bat and ball—scoring 85 runs at a 17.0 average while claiming 11 wickets at an economical 4.53 rate. His standout moment arrived December 1 in Grenada with a devastating four-wicket haul for 21 runs against England, complemented by a crucial 31-run innings that secured a 59-run victory.
Despite financial constraints preventing centralized training camps, Racha has maintained rigorous preparation under the guidance of former Trinidad leg-spinner Imran Khan and current Red Force coach Rayad Emrit. Through simulated match scenarios at the National Cricket Centre in Couva and Stefon’s Ultimate Indoor Sporting Facility in Rousillac, he has refined his tactical awareness and pressure bowling techniques.
‘This selection represents not only my dream but my father’s aspiration to see a Trinidadian represent the West Indies at any level,’ Racha told Newsday during a January 3 interview. ‘With dedication and faith, I believe I can deliver World Cup performances mirroring my recent contributions.’
The Windies enter Group D competition against Afghanistan, South Africa, and Tanzania, with warm-up matches scheduled against Ireland (January 10) and Japan (January 13). Captain Joshua Dorne leads a squad strengthened by wicket-keeper/batsman Jewel Andrew’s previous Under-19 World Cup experience and subsequent senior team appearances.
Racha remains optimistic about the team’s prospects: ‘Our collective bond and understanding of individual roles create a foundation for success. Each player brings unique strengths that could carry us deep into the tournament.’
The tournament structure features four groups of four teams, with top-three finishers advancing to the Super Six phase. Semifinals commence February 3-4, culminating in the February 6 championship at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.