Ayush Mhatre has been named captain of the 15-member Indian squad for the 2026 U19 World Cup, with Vihaan Malhotra as vice-captain. Mhatre, a consistent leader for the junior team, will lead India in the upcoming tournament. The squad announcement precedes a three-match Youth One-Day series against South Africa. Notably, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a recognized domestic and IPL player known for his aggressive batting, is also part of the team.