Cricket West Indies has made a decisive move for the future, naming the promising young batter Joshua Dorne as the captain of the West Indies team for the upcoming ICC Under-19 World Cup. The prestigious tournament is scheduled to be held in Zimbabwe in January and February of 2026.
A Leader Forged in Recent Success
The appointment comes on the back of Dorne's impressive leadership during the recent ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup in South Africa. Although the West Indies team did not advance past the initial group stage in that tournament, Dorne's personal performance and captaincy potential were noted by the selectors. His experience in a global tournament environment is seen as a critical asset for the 2026 campaign.
Dorne is not new to the captain's role. He has previously led the West Indies Under-19 side in a three-match one-day series against Sri Lanka at home. This consistent show of faith from the cricket board highlights their long-term plan to groom him as a leader who can inspire the next generation of Caribbean cricketers.
Building a Competitive Squad for Zimbabwe
The selection panel, led by Robert Haynes, has taken a proactive approach. Alongside confirming Dorne's captaincy, they have also announced a provisional squad of 25 players who will form the core group preparing for the World Cup. This early identification of talent allows for an extended preparation period, giving the team ample time to build cohesion and strategy.
The selected players are expected to undergo rigorous training camps and participate in several competitive series in the lead-up to the main event. The goal is clear: to field a well-prepared, united, and competitive West Indies team capable of challenging for the ultimate prize in junior cricket. The board's early announcement is a strategic move to build momentum and focus.
The Road Ahead and Regional Impact
For Joshua Dorne, this captaincy is a significant honour and a substantial responsibility. It places him at the forefront of West Indies cricket's renewal efforts at the youth level. His task will be to harness the raw talent within the squad and mould them into a unit that can perform under the intense pressure of a World Cup.
The decision underscores Cricket West Indies' commitment to structured development and succession planning. By investing in and empowering young leaders like Dorne, the board aims to create a stronger pipeline of players ready for the senior international arena. All eyes will now be on the preparation phase as the team begins its two-year journey towards Zimbabwe 2026.
