'These years never come back, just be yourselves' - Former India pacer's advice for youngsters ahead of U-19 World Cup

Former India speedster Varun Aaron advised youngsters to focus on being themselves ahead of the upcoming edition of the U-19 World Cup. The right-arm fast bowler, who played nine Tests and nine ODIs for India, added that these years never come back in one's life.

The U-19 World Cup 2026 is set to be played in Zimbabwe and Namibia. The 16-team tournament will be held from January 15 and will conclude on February 6. Australia will be entering the competition as defending champions, having won the previous edition in Benoni by beating India in the summit clash.

"Under-19 cricket is about expressing yourself. There is always pressure to perform at any level, even from Under-14s, but the coaches with this group just want the boys to play with freedom and show their natural game on the field. Those Under-19 years never come back, so this is the stage where they should simply be themselves," Aaron said on JioStar.

India, the most successful team in U-19 World Cups with five titles, is currently playing a three-match ODI series in Benoni. Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Co. won the first match by 25 runs via DLS method. The second encounter is being played at the same venue on Monday, January 5.

In the U-19 World Cup, India are placed in Group A alongside USA, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. On the other hand, Scotland, Zimbabwe, England, and Pakistan are clubbed in Group B. Group C comprises Japan, Ireland, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Meanwhile, Group D consists of Tanzania, Afghanistan, West Indies, and South Africa.

Every side will play the other three teams in its group during the opening round, with the top three progressing to the Super Six stage. The leading four teams from there will qualify for the semi-finals to be played on February 3 and 4 in Bulawayo and Harare, while the final is scheduled to be played at the Harare Sports Club on February 6.