Joshua Dorne To Lead The WI In The Under-19 World Cup 2026

The top-order batter Joshua Dorne has been named the captain of the West Indies squad for the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, which will take place in Zimbabwe and Namibia during January and February. The all-rounder Jonathan Van Lange has been named as the vice-captain of the side for the tournament.

Jewel Andrew Adds Senior International Experience

The 15-member West Indies squad also includes 19-year-old Jewel Andrew, who already carries valuable experience in senior-level matches. Andrew has represented the West Indies in three One-Day Internationals and five T20 Internationals, infusing added depth and a dash of maturity in the otherwise very young squad.

Strong Build-up Ahead of the World Cup

West Indies head into the Under-19 World Cup following two back-to-back seven-match Youth ODI series at home against Sri Lanka and England. Joshua Dorne was the top performer in both the series, ending as the top run-getter, while Jonathan Van Lange was the next-biggest contributor for the team.

Consistent performers are selected.

Several players impressed across both youth series and were subsequently rewarded with World Cup selection: Zachary Carter, Matthew Miller, Jakeem Pollard, Shaquan Belle and Vitel Lawes all played key roles in the build-up matches.

Bowling Unit Shows Promise

Jakeem Pollard proved to be the strike bowler, capturing 18 wickets in 10 matches across the two series at 16.27 apiece. Shaquan Belle picked up 15 wickets in nine games. Vitel Lawes rebounded well from a quiet England series with 14 scalps at 14.92 in six matches against Sri Lanka.

The focus should be directed towards long-term development.

CWI High Performance Manager Dwain Gill said the squad selected is in keeping with the style and standard expected at senior international level, with emphasis on leadership development, tactical understanding, and players getting consistent high-quality match exposure in their respective home territories.

Challenge for West Indies in Group D

At the Under-19 World Cup 2026, the West Indies have been placed in Group D with South Africa, Afghanistan, and Tanzania. The Caribbean side will start their campaign on January 15 against Tanzania in Windhoek.