Chigumbura confident as U-19 tri-series gets underway

ZIMBABWE’S preparations for the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 will shift into high gear this week, as the country hosts a youth one-day international (ODI) triangular series featuring visiting sides from South Africa and Bangladesh.

The hosts will get the ball rolling when they face South Africa Under-19s in the tournament opener at Sunrise Sports Club this morning.

The following day, the two visiting teams will square off at the same venue.

The rest of the tri-series action then moves to Harare Sports Club, starting with a clash between Zimbabwe Under-19s and Bangladesh on Monday.

The remainder of the schedule will see each team playing the others multiple times, culminating in a final between the top two sides on 10 August.

Zimbabwe Cricket have named a 23-player squad for the series — a deliberate move to broaden the selection pool and provide valuable game time to more players in preparation for next year’s Under-19 World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host with Namibia.

And head coach Elton Chigumbura said the tournament offers a vital opportunity to test combinations, assess individual progress and instil a winning mentality in the squad.

“This tri-series gives us a perfect platform to assess our depth and talent in competitive conditions,” Chigumbura said.

“By naming a larger squad, we are ensuring that more players are exposed to high-level cricket as we shape our World Cup squad.”

Chigumbura said while development remains a key focus, the team is targeting more than just participation.

“We are not just looking to be competitive — we are going all out to win this tri-series.

“We have prepared well, and the boys are hungry to prove themselves against quality opposition.

“This is about building a winning culture and momentum as we head toward the World Cup.”

ZIMBABWE UNDER-19 SQUAD

FOR THE TRI-SERIES:

Rowyn Konson, Kirby Madharamete, Michael Blignaut, Kian Blignaut, Dhruv Patel, Simbarashe Mudzengerere, Tatenda Chimugoro, Marshall Mashava, Panashe Mazai, Ryan Moyo, Brandon Ndiweni, Takudzwa Makoni, Jayden Matsikenyeri, Kupakwashe Muradzi, Samuel Muyambo, Nathaniel Hlabangana, Tinotenda Nzua, Leeroy Chiwaula, Brandon Senzere, Benny Zuze, Ambitious Muduma, Tatenda Banda, Naweji Mutumwa. — ZimCricket/Sports Reporter.