U19 World Cup 2026: Zachary Carter's Century Powers West Indies, Pakistan Dominates Zimbabwe, Ireland Secures Super Six Spot

The ICC Men's Under-19 World Cup 2026 group stage delivered thrilling cricket action as West Indies, Pakistan, and Ireland all secured vital victories. With the Super Six stage fast approaching, these wins have set the stage for an exciting knockout phase of the tournament.

West Indies Overpower South Africa by 55 Runs

In what proved to be a comprehensive display of batting and bowling prowess, West Indies defeated South Africa by 55 runs in their final group stage encounter.

Zachary Carter's Masterful Century

Electing to bat first, West Indies found their hero in Zachary Carter, who anchored the innings with a spectacular 114 runs off 104 balls. His knock, featuring eight boundaries and eight towering sixes, provided the foundation for a competitive total.

The Caribbean side faced a challenging spell when JJ Basson struck three times in four deliveries during the 22nd over, momentarily shifting momentum towards South Africa. However, Carter's resilience and shot-making ability kept the West Indies innings on track.

Despite Carter's heroics, South Africa's Basson completed an outstanding five-wicket haul as West Indies were bowled out for 234. Jonathan van Lange contributed 29 before falling to Michael Kruiskamp.

Shaquan Belle's Devastating Six-Wicket Haul

The chase of 235 proved too steep for the Young Proteas. Shaquan Belle set the tone early by removing opener Adnaan Lagadien, and the wickets continued to tumble as Jorich van Schalkwyk and Muhammad Bulbulia departed off consecutive deliveries.

Jason Rowles attempted a rescue mission with a fighting 46 off 40 balls, adding 42 runs with Armaan Manack. However, Vitel Lawes' dismissal of Rowles at 115/5 effectively ended South Africa's hopes.

Belle then produced a spectacular spell to close out the match, finishing with figures of 6 wickets as South Africa lost their final five wickets for just 57 runs.

Pakistan Cruise Past Zimbabwe with Eight-Wicket Victory

Pakistan demonstrated clinical efficiency in dismantling Zimbabwe, securing an eight-wicket win to conclude their group stage campaign on a high.

Bowling Excellence Sets Up Easy Chase

After winning the toss and electing to field, Pakistan's bowlers immediately seized control. Ali Raza and Mohammad Sayyam struck twice each during the powerplay, reducing Zimbabwe to a precarious 37/4.

Nathaniel Hlabangana provided the only meaningful resistance with a battling 59 off 85 balls, which constituted the bulk of Zimbabwe's total when he was dismissed by Momin Qamar in the 30th over. Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 128.

Ali Raza was the standout performer with impressive figures of 3/16, while Mohammad Sayyam, Abdul Subhan, and Momin Qamar each claimed two wickets. Ahmed Hussain contributed one wicket to complete a dominant collective bowling display.

Sameer Minhas Guides Pakistan Home

The chase proved largely untroubled for Pakistan, with Sameer Minhas starring with an unbeaten 74 off 75 balls. He received steady support from Usman Khan (26 off 23) and Ahmed Hussain (24 off 53) as Pakistan reached their target in just 26.2 overs.

Panashe Mazai and Michael Blignaut were the only wicket-takers for Zimbabwe, each claiming one scalp in a forgettable bowling display.

Ireland Edge Past Japan to Secure Super Six Berth

In a match that showcased both teams' fighting spirit, Ireland overcame Japan by four wickets to book their place in the Super Six stage.

Japan's Spirited Batting Display

Japan, the tournament debutants, elected to bat first but faced early trouble when star batter Hugo Tani-Kelly fell to Olly Riley in the sixth over. Adam Leckey struck twice in quick succession, leaving Japan struggling at 57/3.

Charles Hara-Hinze and captain Kazuma Kato-Stafford provided stability with a crucial 68-run partnership. Charles Hara-Hinze top-scored with 57, while Gabriel Hara-Hinze (44 off 29) and Skyler Nakayama-Cook (30 off 37) mounted a late fightback with a valuable 62-run stand to push Japan's total past 200.

Japan were eventually bowled out for 247, with Ireland skipper Olly Riley (3/52) and Adam Leckey (3/44) leading the bowling attack. Samuel Haslett claimed two wickets and Thomas Ford added one.

Ireland's Measured Chase

Ireland's pursuit began steadily despite losing James West in the ninth over to Kazuma Kato-Stafford. Freddie Ogilby and Adam Leckey then combined for a brilliant 95-run partnership that put Ireland firmly in control.

Timothy Moore provided Japan with hope by dismissing Ogilby (73 off 76) and Leckey (44 off 57) in successive overs. However, Sebastian Dijkstra's composed unbeaten 55 off 61 balls guided Ireland home to a four-wicket victory, securing their Super Six qualification.

Looking Ahead: Super Six Stage Promises Intense Competition

With the group stage nearing completion, West Indies, Pakistan, and Ireland have all positioned themselves strongly for the knockout rounds. West Indies' bowling depth, Pakistan's all-round efficiency, and Ireland's resilience under pressure suggest these teams could be serious contenders as the tournament progresses.

The Super Six stage will test each team's consistency and ability to perform under heightened pressure, with the ultimate prize of lifting the U19 World Cup trophy awaiting the champions.