ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026: West Indies U19 vs Ireland U19 – Match Preview

Date: January 25, 2026
Time: 07:30 GMT
Venue: Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

As the ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026 moves into the Super Six stage, one of the most anticipated Group 1 fixtures is set to take place in Windhoek. West Indies U19 will face Ireland U19 in a high-stakes match that could significantly impact their campaign.

This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams look to continue their strong performances from the earlier stages of the tournament.

Team Form and Recent Performance

West Indies U19

The West Indies U19 side has made a strong impression in the tournament so far. Their most recent win came against South Africa U19 by a commanding margin of 55 runs, showcasing their ability to dominate on the field.

• Top Run-Scorer: Abhigyan Kundu Tamim (122 runs)
• Top Wicket-Taker: Henil Patel (6 wickets)

The West Indies squad is packed with explosive batters and agile bowlers, and players like Jewel Andrew and Vitel Lawes are expected to play pivotal roles.

Squad:
Joshua Dorne, Jewel Andrew, Shamar Apple, Shaquan Belle, Zachary Carter, Tanez Francis, R’jai Gittens, Vitel Lawes, Micah McKenzie, Matthew Miller, Israel Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Kunal Tilokani, Jonathan Van Lange.
Reserves: Brendan Boodoo, Tyriek Bryan, Earsinho Fontaine, Deshawn James.

Ireland U19

Ireland U19 has also made a commendable showing in the competition. Their most recent match saw them defeat Japan U19 by 4 wickets, which demonstrated their ability to chase down targets under pressure.

• Top Run-Scorer: Abhigyan Kundu Tamim (122 runs)
• Top Wicket-Taker: Henil Patel (6 wickets)

Ireland will be looking to rely on their experienced middle order and a disciplined bowling attack. Adam Leckey and Samuel Haslett are among the key players who could make a significant impact.

Squad:
Olly Riley, Reuben Wilson, Alex Armstrong, Callum Armstrong, Marko Bates, Sebastian Dijkstra, Thomas Ford, Samuel Haslett, Adam Leckey, Febin Manoj, Luke Murray, Robert O’Brien, Freddie Ogilby, James West, Bruce Whaley.
Non-traveling Reserves: Peter le Roux, William Shields.

Head-to-Head and Match Predictions

The match between West Indies U19 and Ireland U19 is expected to be a tight contest, but the West Indies' recent form and superior batting lineup give them a slight edge.

Toss Prediction: West Indies U19

Match Winner: West Indies U19

Top Batter:

• West Indies: Jewel Andrew
• Ireland: Adam Leckey

Top Bowler:

• West Indies: Vitel Lawes
• Ireland: Samuel Haslett

Most Sixes:

• West Indies: Zachary Carter
• Ireland: Marko Bates

Player of the Match: Jewel Andrew (West Indies)

Team Scores (Batting First):

• West Indies: 260+
• Ireland: 195+

Match Handicap: West Indies U19

Key Matchups to Watch

• Jewel Andrew (West Indies) vs Ireland's Bowlers – Andrew is one of the most dangerous batters in the tournament, and his ability to accelerate the innings could be key.
• Vitel Lawes (West Indies) vs Ireland's Batters – Lawes' pace and swing could trouble the Irish middle order.
• Adam Leckey (Ireland) vs West Indies' Bowlers – Leckey's ability to rotate the strike and score crucial runs will be vital for Ireland's chase.

Conclusion

The West Indies U19 vs Ireland U19 match on January 25, 2026, promises to be a high-intensity clash with both sides looking to secure a crucial win in the Super Six stage. While the West Indies are slightly favored due to their recent form and firepower, Ireland's disciplined approach and chase capabilities make them a dangerous opponent.

Fans around the world can look forward to an exciting contest that could well define the trajectory of both teams in the ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026.
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