The India U19 cricket team is set to play a three-match Youth ODI series against South Africa U19 starting January 3, serving as preparation for the U19 ODI World Cup on January 15. Vaibhav Suryavanshi will captain the Indian side in the absence of regular captain Ayush Mhatre and vice-captain Vihaan Malhotra, who are resting due to wrist injuries but are expected to return for the World Cup. India, a five-time champion, aims to perform well in the series and the upcoming tournament where they are in Group B.