HISTORY ON CARDS: Twins Set to Play in U19 World Cup 2026

Zimbabwe has announced its squad for the 2026 ICC U19 World Cup, revealing a 15-member lineup that will represent the nation when it co-hosts the tournament with Namibia from January 15 to February 6. Among the notable selections are Zimbabwe twin brothers Michael and Kian Blignaut, sons of former Zimbabwe all-rounder Andy Blignaut.

The Blignaut brothers, both 17, have earned their maiden call-up and now stand ready to make their father proud on the international stage, who featured in 74 internationals and was part of Zimbabwe’s 2003 World Cup campaign.

The young Blignauts, who can contribute with both bat and ball, will have the chance to impress in familiar conditions. Zimbabwe has been drawn in Group C with England, Pakistan, and Scotland, with all of its league fixtures scheduled to take place at Takashinga Cricket Club. Fast bowler Simbarashe Mudzengerere has been appointed captain for the upcoming tournament, while experienced top-order batter Nathaniel Hlabangana, who played in the 2024 edition in South Africa, also features in the squad.

Twin Players in U19 World Cup: Kian and Michael Blignaut

Zimbabwe has confirmed its 15-member squad for next month’s ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, and the selection of Michael and Kian Blignaut was the most notable, as the twin brothers are the sons of former Zimbabwe all-rounder Andy Blignaut.

The co-hosts became the third team to reveal their lineup for the 16th edition of the tournament, which will be staged across Zimbabwe and Namibia. Andy Blignaut was known for his explosive batting and useful pace. Now, his teenage sons have earned their opportunity to step onto the global stage as part of Zimbabwe’s U19 squad for the upcoming event. He said,

Zimbabwe coach Elton Chigumbura is delighted with the overall balance of the squad, noting that the group has the potential to deliver strong performances against some of the best cricket teams in the world. He emphasised that Zimbabwe will enter the tournament with the intent to win every group-stage game and secure a place in the Super Six. The team will kick off their U19 World Cup journey on January 15, facing Scotland at Takashinga Sports Club in Harare.

Zimbabwe Squad for ICC U19 World Cup

Zimbabwe’s U19 squad features a bunch of exciting young talents who could play match-winning roles at the 2026 World Cup. Among the buzz are twin all-rounders Kian and Michael Blignaut, whose ability to contribute in both departments gives Zimbabwe valuable flexibility. Captain Simbarashe Mudzengerere is another standout player. He is a young pacer who sets the tone with the new ball.

In the batting department, Nathaniel Hlabangana offers experience, having played in the previous U19 World Cup, and is expected to guide the top order. Let's have a look at the Zimbabwe Squad for the U19 World Cup 2026.

Zimbabwe U19 Squad

Simbarashe Mudzengerere (c), Kian Blignaut, Michael Blignaut, Leeroy Chiwaula, Tatenda Chimugoro, Brendon Senzere, Nathaniel Hlabangana, Takudzwa Makoni, Panashe Mazai, Webster Madhidhi, Shelton Mazvitorera, Kupakwashe Muradzi, Brandon Ndiweni, Dhruv Patel, Benny Zuze