Asian Cricket Council Under-19s Asia Cup (Afghanistan) 2025/26

The Asian Cricket Council Under-19 Asia Cup stands as the premier regional under-19 cricket tournament in Asia. Organized by the Asian Cricket Council, the competition serves as a developmental stage for top national teams across the continent. The event is distinct from the ICC Under-19 World Cup Asia Qualifier, which supports lower-ranked nations in securing World Cup spots.

Participation is generally limited to established ACC member nations. The current lineup includes Afghanistan Under-19s, Bangladesh Under-19s, India Under-19s, Malaysia Under-19s, Nepal Under-19s, and Pakistan Under-19s. Matches are played in the 50-over ODI format. The structure typically involves a group stage followed by knockout semi-finals and a final.

India holds the record for most titles, having won eight championships as of 2025. Bangladesh claimed victory in consecutive years, winning in 2023 and 2024. Pakistan secured the most recent edition in 2025, defeating India in the final. The tournament operates on a tiered system alongside the Under-19 Elite Cup and the Under-19 Challenge Cup, though formal promotion and relegation between these tiers is not explicitly defined. Historical scheduling has been irregular, often biennial, but recent editions have been held consecutively.

The competition acts as a crucial feeder for players aiming for higher international honours. It provides a platform for young talent to compete against regional peers under pressure. The event has been held since its inception in 1989, with India winning the inaugural title in Bangladesh. While the ACC Elite Cup historically served as a World Cup qualifier, the current structure separates the high-profile Asia Cup from the formal ICC qualification pathway. This distinction ensures the tournament remains focused on development rather than qualification.