ICC U19 Team: 12 Standout Stars Led by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
ICC U19 Team cricket found a new superstar as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi headlined the official Team of the Tournament following a sensational ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026. The young Indian batter capped a remarkable campaign with a breathtaking 175 off just 80 balls in the final against England, earning him the Player of the Tournament award and cementing his status as one of the brightest prospects in world cricket.
The ICC U19 Team of the Tournament featured 12 players who consistently delivered match-winning performances across the competition. India led the way with three selections, while England, Afghanistan, Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Sri Lanka, and others also found representation, reflecting the global depth of emerging talent in youth cricket.
ICC U19 Team of the Tournament: Selection Overview
The ICC U19 Team of the Tournament was selected by an experienced panel comprising Ian Bishop (Convenor), Lydia Greenway, Andy Flower, and Telford Vice. The panel evaluated players based on consistency, impact under pressure, and influence on match outcomes throughout the tournament.
The final ICC U19 lineup balances explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and strong leadership, showcasing players who not only excelled individually but also lifted their teams during crucial moments of the competition.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Dominates ICC U19 Spotlight
Player of the Tournament Performance
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi emerged as the defining figure of the ICC U19 World Cup 2026. His unforgettable 175 in the final against England was one of the greatest innings ever played at this level, combining power, precision, and composure on the biggest stage.
Throughout the tournament, Sooryavanshi displayed an exceptional range of stroke play, consistently dismantling bowling attacks. His ability to accelerate without compromising technique made him a unanimous choice to headline the ICC U19 Team of the Tournament.
India’s Strong Presence in ICC U19 Team
India’s dominance at the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 was underlined by the inclusion of three players in the Team of the Tournament. Alongside Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Kanishk Chouhan and Henil Patel earned selection for their all-round contributions.
Kanishk Chouhan impressed with both bat and ball, delivering crucial performances at different stages of the tournament. His versatility added balance to India’s lineup and proved decisive in tight matches, justifying his place in the ICC U19 selection.
Henil Patel stood out as a reliable wicket-taking option. He finished the tournament with 11 wickets, including a stunning five for 16 against the USA. Patel’s consistency and ability to exploit pressure situations made him a valuable asset in India’s successful campaign.
England Trio Shine in ICC U19 Team of the Tournament
Thomas Rew Leads as Captain and Wicketkeeper
Runners-up England were rewarded with three selections in the ICC U19 Team of the Tournament, led by Thomas Rew, who was named captain and wicketkeeper. Rew enjoyed an outstanding competition, finishing with 330 runs at an impressive average of 66.
One of Rew’s standout moments came in the semi-final against Australia, where he scored an unbeaten 100 to guide England into the final. His leadership, composure, and consistency made him an automatic choice in the ICC U19 lineup.
England’s other inclusions reflected the team’s balanced approach, combining solid batting depth with disciplined bowling throughout the tournament.
Record-Breakers and Statistical Leaders in ICC U19 World Cup
The ICC U19 World Cup 2026 witnessed several remarkable statistical feats. Lumsden finished as the leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets, showcasing relentless accuracy and movement across conditions. His sustained excellence earned him a place in the Team of the Tournament.
Mayes topped the run-scoring charts with a staggering 444 runs, including a memorable 191 against Scotland. He narrowly missed equaling the all-time highest individual score in ICC U19 World Cup history, falling just one run short of the record set days earlier by Sri Lanka’s Viran Chamuditha, who was also selected in the ICC U19 team.
Afghanistan’s Historic Run Reflected in ICC U19 Team
Key Contributions from Faisal and Nooristani
Afghanistan’s rise in youth cricket continued at the ICC U19 World Cup 2026, with two players earning selection in the Team of the Tournament. Faisal Khan Shinozada played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s journey to the semi-finals, scoring two centuries during the competition against Ireland and India.
Nooristani Omarzai complemented Faisal’s batting heroics with outstanding bowling performances. He claimed 14 wickets in the tournament, including a remarkable five for nine against Tanzania. His ability to strike early and break partnerships proved crucial for Afghanistan’s success.
Australia, Pakistan, and West Indies Add Firepower
Australia’s captain Oliver Peake earned his place in the ICC U19 Team after scoring two centuries, including vital knocks against West Indies and England in the semi-finals. His leadership and big-match temperament stood out throughout the competition.
Pakistan’s Ali Raza impressed with his control and economy, taking 13 wickets at just over four runs per over. His consistency with the ball made him one of the most reliable bowlers of the ICC U19 World Cup 2026.
West Indies were represented by Vitel Lawes, a Jamaican left-arm spinner who took 10 wickets in five matches. Lawes’ ability to extract turn and maintain pressure highlighted the Caribbean’s continuing production of quality spin talent at the youth level.
Sri Lanka’s Viran Chamuditha Earns ICC U19 Recognition
Viran Chamuditha’s record-setting innings earlier in the tournament ensured his inclusion in the ICC U19 Team of the Tournament. His landmark score not only etched his name into history but also demonstrated Sri Lanka’s enduring strength in developing technically sound batters.
Chamuditha’s performances added flair and resilience to the ICC U19 lineup, further emphasizing the tournament’s diversity of talent across cricketing nations.
What the ICC U19 Team of the Tournament Represents
The ICC U19 Team of the Tournament is more than just a list of standout performers. It serves as a snapshot of the future of international cricket, highlighting players who are likely to transition into senior national teams in the coming years.
Past ICC U19 selections have often featured players who later became global stars. The 2026 edition continues that tradition, with several members of this squad already drawing attention from franchises and selectors worldwide.
Why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Leads the Next Generation
Among all selections, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stands out as the face of the ICC U19 World Cup 2026. His dominance in high-pressure matches, especially the final, reflects maturity beyond his years.
For India and global cricket, Sooryavanshi represents the evolution of fearless, modern batting at the youth level. His success underscores the importance of nurturing talent through structured domestic pathways and international exposure.
Final Word on ICC U19 Team of the Tournament
The ICC U19 Team of the Tournament from the 2026 Men’s Cricket World Cup celebrates excellence, resilience, and promise. Led by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s extraordinary performances, the 12-player squad captures the spirit of a competition that consistently delivers future stars.
As these players progress in their careers, the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 will be remembered as a landmark event that showcased the next wave of cricketing brilliance. Fans and selectors alike will watch closely as many of these names prepare to take the next step onto the senior international stage.
Written by 8jjsports.com News Desk | February 4, 2026
Stay updated with 8jj Sports for Live Sports Scores, News & Community
Responses