Peake to spearhead title defence
Peake’s leadership will be crucial as Australia aim for back-to-back championships and their fifth overall U19 World Cup title. The squad combines experienced performers with promising newcomers, including Nitesh Samuel, Naden Cooray, and William Taylor, recognized for their impressive displays at this month’s Under-19 Male National Championships.
The 15-member squad also features two Indian-origin players—Aryan Sharma and John James—and two Sri Lankan-origin players—Naden Cooray and Nitesh Samuel—highlighting the team’s diversity and depth.
Coach Tim Nielsen expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and complementary skills.
“We’re delighted to announce a strong and well-balanced squad for the ICC Under-19 World Cup,” Nielsen said. “Our focus has been on selecting players whose skills complement each other and give us the best chance of success.”
Australia has been placed in Group A alongside Ireland, Japan, and Sri Lanka. The 16-team tournament kicks off on January 15 in Zimbabwe and Namibia. The top three teams from each group will advance to the Super Sixes, followed by the semi-finals and final.
Australia U19 Men’s World Cup 2026 Squad:
Oliver Peake (c), Kasey Barton, Naden Cooray, Jayden Draper, Steven Hogan, Thomas Hogan, Ben Gordon, John James, Charles Lachmund, Alex Lee Young, Will Malajczuk, Nitesh Samuel, Hayden Schiller, Aryan Sharma, William Taylor
With Peake at the helm and a promising group of youngsters, Australia will enter the tournament confident of another strong performance on the world stage
