Harare, January 23 – Bangladesh’s Under-19 team delivered a commanding performance to defeat the United States by seven wickets in the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026, securing their spot in the Super Six stage. This thrilling victory at Takashinga Sports Club not only boosted their campaign but also saw New Zealand advance alongside them, with India already leading from Group B.
USA, inserted to bat after losing the toss, struggled from the outset, slumping to 6 for 2 early on. Utkarsh Srivastava and Sahil Garg mounted a recovery with a gritty 51-run stand for the third wicket off 90 balls. Garg fell for 35, smashing two sixes and two fours in his 60-ball knock, leaving USA at 89 for 5.
Srivastava anchored with 39 off 65 balls before Adnit Jhanb took charge. The lower order fought back, with Jhanb unbeaten on 68 from 69 balls, including a six and three fours. He added 43 for the eighth with Adit Kappu, pushing USA to 199 all out. Bangladesh’s Iqbal Hussain Emon starred with 3 wickets, supported by Al Fihad, Shahriar Ahmed, and Mohammad Rizan Hussain with two each.
Chasing 200, Bangladesh raced to victory in 41.3 overs. Jwad Abbar and Rifat Beg laid the foundation with a 78-run opening stand in 14.2 overs. Abbar’s explosive 47 off 42 balls, laced with three sixes and five fours, set the tone before both openers departed.
Azizul Haque Tamim then stole the show, partnering Kalum Siddiqui Alin for 88 runs for the third wicket. Tamim’s masterful 64 off 82 balls, featuring two sixes and two fours, guided Bangladesh home. Siddiqui remained not out on 30. USA’s Ritvik Appidi, Srivastava, and Garg claimed a wicket each.
This win underscores Bangladesh’s depth and resilience, positioning them strongly for the Super Six clashes ahead.
