Zimbabwe Under-19 captain Simbarashe Mudzengerere will lead a 15-member squad in the Men’s U-19 World Cup, co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, from January 15 to February 6.
Mudzengerere, a right-hand batter and medium pacer, has captained the side since making his debut against Ireland in April, contributing 37 runs and taking 1 for 28 in a successful chase. The squad also features twins Kian and Michael Blignaut, sons of former Zimbabwe allrounder Andy Blignaut.
Coach Elton Chigumbura emphasized a disciplined approach: “Success will come from executing our processes, staying disciplined and sticking to our roles. If we do that consistently, we give ourselves a real chance to go all the way.”
Zimbabwe will play in Group C, facing Scotland (Jan 15), England (Jan 18), and Pakistan (Jan 22). Matches in the country will be hosted across Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Cricket Club in Bulawayo, and Queens Sports Club in Harare. Warm-up matches are scheduled against USA on Jan 10 and New Zealand on Jan 12.
Playing at home offers Zimbabwe an advantage, with familiarity of conditions and strong crowd support expected to boost their campaign in the tournament.
Zimbabwe squad for U-19 World Cup:
Simbarashe Mudzengerere (C), Kian Blignaut, Michael Blignaut, Leeroy Chiwaula, Tatenda Chimugoro, Brendon Senzere, Nathaniel Hlabangana, Takudzwa Makoni, Panashe Mazai, Webster Madhidhi, Shelton Mazvitorera, Kupakwashe Muradzi, Brandon Ndiweni, Dhruv Patel, Benny Zuze
