Punjab Newsline,Sports :
Senior Indian cricketers extend best wishes to Under-19 squad ahead of World Cup campaign
As the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 approaches, the Indian Under-19 team has received strong backing from senior Indian cricketers and former champions. The youngsters will begin their campaign against the USA on Thursday in the prestigious tournament, which is being jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia. Five-time champions India once again enter the competition as one of the favourites to lift the trophy.
India’s ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill extended his best wishes to the Under-19 squad and said he is eager to see the next generation represent the country on the global stage. Gill noted that the Under-19 World Cup is an important platform for young players to showcase their talent and gain valuable experience. He encouraged the team to enjoy the tournament and play with confidence.
Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh described the Under-19 World Cup as a crucial stepping stone in a cricketer’s journey. He advised the players to enjoy every moment of the competition and not take unnecessary pressure. Arshdeep expressed hope that in the future, many of these youngsters would go on to represent India at the senior level and share the dressing room with established players. He urged the team to stay relaxed, focus on their game and aim to bring the trophy back home.
Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, who was part of India’s Under-19 squad in the 2020 edition, reflected on his own experience of the tournament. He said representing the country at the Under-19 level is a very special feeling and creates memories that last a lifetime. Jurel recalled the 2020 final against Bangladesh and said that regardless of results, the moments from the tournament remain unforgettable.
Former Under-19 World Cup winner Shreevats Goswami also sent his best wishes to the team, saying that the entire nation is supporting them. He advised the players to stay happy, play freely and not let pressure affect their performance. Meanwhile, 2012 Under-19 World Cup champion Hanuma Vihari also wished the team success and encouraged them to return home with the trophy.
With strong support from senior players and past champions, the Indian Under-19 team will look to make a strong start and chase a record-extending sixth World Cup title in the 2026 edition.