Hakim to Lead Tigers in Youth World Cup

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has finalised its leadership structure for the upcoming 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup, handing the captain’s armband to the promising Azizul Hakim. As the squad prepares to board their flight to Zimbabwe this Sunday, the appointment marks a pivotal moment for the young batsman, who carries the weight of a nation’s expectations into a tournament known for forging future legends. He will be supported in his duties by vice-captain Jawad Abrar, as the pair look to navigate a challenging path through the group stages in Southern Africa.

This year’s edition of the tournament is a collaborative effort between Zimbabwe and Namibia, serving as a vital dress rehearsal for the senior World Cup scheduled for the same region in 2027. For Bangladesh, this is their 15th appearance in the competition, a journey that reached its zenith with a historic trophy win in 2020. After finishing sixth in the 2024 installment, the pressure is on the current crop to break back into the top four. To ensure a competitive edge, the BCB has selected a roster that blends raw talent with tournament experience, specifically including pacer Iqbal Hossain and off-spinner Sheikh Paevez Jibon, both of whom featured in the previous World Cup cycle.

The young Tigers have been drawn in Group A, setting up a mouth-watering schedule that begins with a fierce clash against India on 17th January. Following the high-intensity opener, the team will travel to face New Zealand on 20th January before completing their initial group commitments against the United States on 23rd January. These fixtures will demand a swift adjustment to the African highveld, where the pitches typically offer more carry and bounce than the surfaces in Dhaka.

Beyond the core fifteen-man squad, seven players have been placed on standby, ensuring that the team remains insulated against any injury setbacks during the intensive schedule. With the tournament officially commencing on 15th January, the focus now shifts to final training drills and acclimatisation. Azizul Hakim’s leadership will be tested immediately as he seeks to inspire a new generation of cricketers to replicate the glory of the 2020 champions.

Bangladesh Under-19 World Cup Roster & Group A Schedule