The journey to the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 continues this week as Samoa hosts the East Asia-Pacific Division 2 Qualifier. 

Starting on Tuesday, teams from Indonesia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), and Vanuatu will join hosts Samoa in a bid to move one step closer to the World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia.

This qualifier marks the latest event on the ICC's qualification calendar, following recently concluded Division 2 qualifiers in Asia and Europe, and ongoing competitions in Africa. The matches will be played at two grounds in Garden Ovals, Apia, featuring a round-robin format. The top two teams will compete in a final on Saturday.

The winner of this qualifier will earn a spot in the next stage of qualification: the East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifier in Japan, scheduled for April next year. There, they will join Japan and Fiji in the final regional battle for a place in the 2026 World Cup.

Toby Cohen, Acting ICC Regional Development Manager for East Asia-Pacific, expressed his excitement for the event. 

"I am thrilled to welcome the emerging U19 men’s players from across the East Asia-Pacific region to Samoa. Each team has trained hard and is ready to compete at the highest level. I wish Samoa, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu all the best for the event and thank Samoa Cricket for hosting this incredible celebration of international cricket."

Stella Siale-Vaea, CEO of Samoa Cricket, highlighted the significance of hosting this qualifier. 

“Hosting the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup East Asia-Pacific Division 2 Qualifier and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Sub Regional Qualifier A is a monumental achievement for Samoa Cricket.

“It showcases our capability to host international competitions and provides an incredible opportunity to inspire our local athletes, boost our economy, and promote Samoa on the global stage.

“These events will elevate the standard of cricket in Samoa, foster community spirit, and bring international recognition to our beautiful nation. We are proud to welcome the cricketing world to our shores."