ECB announce 15-member squad for 2024 U19 World Cup, include Rehan Ahmed's 15-year-old brother Farhan

The England Cricket Board (ECB) has finalised the 15-player squad for the ICC Men's U19 Cricket World Cup, to be held in South Africa. The 15th edition of the U19 men's tournament will be held across four venues in South Africa, following India's triumph in West Indies in 2022.

Ben McKinney from Durham has been appointed as the captain while Rehan Ahmed's 15-year-old brother Farhan has also secured a spot. Farhan established his presence in Nottinghamshire's second XI during the 2023 season, where his performances led him to secure a place in the upcoming tournament in South Africa.

The squad features some recognizable names such as Jaydn Denly, the nephew of former England batter Joe Denly and Durham’s Haydon Mustard, the son of former England wicketkeeper Phil. Furthermore, Essex's Luc Benkenstein, who is the son of Gloucestershire head coach Dale Benkenstein, has been named the vice-captain of the squad.

41 epic battles of young guns fighting it out for coveted trophy

The 16 participating teams are divided into four groups of four teams each, with the tournament set to commence in January. A total of 41 matches are scheduled, with the final to be played in February.

Defending champions India are placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, Ireland, and the USA, while England find themselves in Group B alongside South Africa, West Indies, and Scotland. Group C comprises of Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, and Group D possesses participation of Afghanistan, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Nepal.

England U-19 squad for ICC U-19 World Cup 2024

Ben McKinney (Durham - captain), Luc Benkenstein (Essex - vice captain), Farhan Ahmed (Nottinghamshire), Tazeem Ali (Warwickshire), Charlie Allison (Essex), Charlie Barnard (Lancashire), Jack Carney (Lancashire), Jaydn Denly (Kent), Eddie Jack (Hampshire), Dominic Kelly (Hampshire), Sebastian Morgan (Middlesex), Haydon Mustard (Durham), Hamza Shaikh (Warwickshire), Noah Thain (Essex), Theo Wylie (Warwickshire).