The dust has settled on the Super Six stage, and the stage is set for a blockbuster conclusion to the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026. After weeks of high-octane action across Zimbabwe and Namibia, only four titans remain.
The semi-final bracket is a mouth-watering mix of historical dominance and rising powerhouses. Winadda Australia, England, India, and Afghanistan are the last ones standing in the hunt for ultimate age-group glory.
The Lineup: When and Where?
The knockout stage will be split between two of Zimbabwe's most iconic venues:
Match | Date | Venue | Time (Local) |
|---|---|---|---|
SF 1: Australia vs England | Feb 3, 2026 | Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo | 09:30 AM |
SF 2: India vs Afghanistan | Feb 4, 2026 | Harare Sports Club, Harare | 09:30 AM |
The victors will meet in the Grand Final on Friday, February 6, at the Harare Sports Club.
Semi-Final 1: Australia vs England
The Ashes Rivalry Goes Global
There is no rivalry in cricket quite like Australia vs England, and at the U19 level, the intensity is no different. Both teams entered the semi-finals with undefeated records, making this a true "immovable object meets irresistible force" scenario.
Australia’s Edge: Led by Oliver Peake, who already has World Cup winner's experience from 2024, the Aussies have looked clinical. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Charles Lachmund, has been the most consistent in the tournament.
England’s Firepower: England has been the tournament's batting juggernaut. Ben Mayes has been in staggering form, recently equaling the record for the second-highest individual score in U19 CWC history. Supported by the spin of Farhan Ahmed, England looks like a complete unit.
Semi-Final 2: India vs Afghanistan
The Kings vs The Giant-Killers
This is a fascinating tactical matchup. India, the five-time champions, face an Afghanistan side that is no longer just "competitive"—they are genuine title contenders.
India’s Dominance: India’s path to the semis was highlighted by a crushing win over rivals Pakistan. All eyes are on 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose explosive opening stands have dismantled bowling attacks throughout January. With Abhigyan Kundu providing stability, the "Boys in Blue" are favorites to reach their sixth successive final.
Afghanistan’s Dream: The Afghans have captured hearts with their fearless brand of cricket. Faisal Khan (the tournament's second-highest run-scorer) and the lethal bowling of Nooristani Omarzai have proven that they can beat anyone on their day. They’ve already brushed aside South Africa and West Indies; India will be their ultimate litmus test.
5 Players Who Could Define the Semis
Vaibhav Suryavanshi (India): The youngest player in the tournament, yet its most feared batter. His strike rate is north of 180.
Ben Mayes (England): The leading run-scorer who seems to find the boundary at will. If he stays in for 20 overs, the game is usually over.
Oliver Peake (Australia): A calm head in high-pressure situations. His experience in the 2024 final makes him Australia’s most valuable asset.
Nooristani Omarzai (Afghanistan): A wicket-taking machine. His ability to swing the new ball could trouble India’s top order.
Farhan Ahmed (England): The young off-spinner has the pedigree and the skill to choke the run rate in the middle overs.
How to Watch
Fans can catch all the action live on the Star Sports Network and stream the matches via JioHotstar. In the UK, Sky Sports will broadcast the knockouts, while fans in the USA can tune in to Willow TV.
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