DUBAI: England and Afghanistan produced solid all-round displays as they bagged big wins against Zimbabwe and West Indies respectively in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026. England defeated Zimbabwe by eight wickets, while Afghanistan dominated the West Indies to secure a spot in the Super Six stage of the tournament.

In the encounter between England and Zimbabwe, the latter struggled after being put to bat first. The Zimbabwean openers, Nathaniel Hlabangana and Kupakwashe Muradzi, fell cheaply, collapsing to just eight runs at the start. Kian Blignaut and Dhruv Patel attempted to stabilize the innings, forming a 45-run partnership, with additional runs coming from Tatenda Chimugoro and Patel. However, despite Captain Simbarashe Mudzengerere's valiant effort in carrying his bat through the innings, Zimbabwe could only post a modest total of 208 runs.

England, in reply, faced early setbacks by losing their openers but turned the tide with an impressive performance from Ben Mayes and Captain Thomas Rew. The duo dismissed worries of a potential collapse with an aggressive chase, finishing the game comfortably by scoring 209 runs in just 28 overs, with Rew remaining unbeaten on 86.

Afghanistan's match against West Indies saw a similar narrative. Winning the toss, they chose to bat first and secured a strong start with openers Khalid Ahmadzai and Osman Sadat, who put together an 86-run partnership. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Afghanistan’s innings gained momentum when Captain Mehboob Taskin joined Sadat, accumulating a formidable total of 262 runs. Sadat scored an impressive 88 runs, effectively anchoring the innings.

The Afghan bowlers were relentless, dismissing West Indies for a paltry 124 runs, with developing talents Wahidullah Zadran and Khatir Stanikzai claiming three wickets each. Afghanistan’s significant 138-run victory not only highlighted their skills but also cemented their qualification for the Super Six stage.

Both teams will continue their campaign, with England facing Scotland and Afghanistan set to take on Tanzania next. The wins mark a hopeful trajectory for both nations as they vie for the championship title in the ongoing tournament.