Two Indian-Origin Cricketers Named in Australia's U-19 World Cup Squad

• Aryan Sharma and John James make Australia’s 15-member U-19 World Cup squad
• Team reflects strong multicultural representation
• Australia heads to Namibia as defending champions

Australia has named its 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s U-19 World Cup, featuring two Indian-origin players, Aryan Sharma and John James, who earned their spots after standout performances in recent youth tours and national championships. The tournament will take place in Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6.

Sharma, a left-handed batter and left-arm spinner, and James, a medium-pace all-rounder, impressed during Australia’s youth Tests and one-dayers against India in September. Their strong form at the National U-19 Championships in Perth sealed their selection for the global event.

The squad also highlights Australia’s multicultural cricketing landscape, with Sri Lankan-origin players Naden Cooray and Nitesh Samuel, and Chinese-origin cricketer Alex Lee Young included. The team will be led by Oliver Peake, who continues to shine in the youth circuit.

Also Read: India Defeats Wales 3-1 to Stay in Top 10 Race at Junior Women's World Cup

Head coach Tim Nielsen said the squad was chosen for balance, depth, and versatility. “We’re pleased to announce a strong and well-rounded group for the U-19 World Cup. Our aim was to pick players with complementary skills that give us the best chance to succeed”, he said. He added that some players already have experience training in senior setups, while others have rapidly grown through the pathway system.

Australia, the defending champions, has been placed in Group A alongside Ireland, Japan, and Sri Lanka. The squad will travel to Namibia in early January, with warm-up matches scheduled from January 9 to 14.