ICC President Malcolm Gray today welcomed the official launch of the ICC Under 19 World Cup in Auckland, New Zealand.

Speaking at the launch event he said: "Bringing together the most talented and gifted cricketers for this Under 19 World Cup is tremendously exciting, and something the ICC is very proud to be associated with. As a stepping-stone to the senior international game this tournament provides a wonderful opportunity for the cricketers who will gather in New Zealand. There can be few, if any, better experiences for young sportsmen than being selected to represent their countries in an event of this stature and importance."

This will be the third ICC Under 19 World Cup following South Africa in 1998 and Sri Lanka two years later. Title holder India will defend its position as the world's leading Under 19 team against opposition from each of the other nine Test nations plus Kenya, Canada, Namibia, Nepal, Papua New Guinea and Scotland.

The event has an outstanding pedigree in grooming rising young talent for higher honours. The pedigree of cricketers to have starred in previous tournaments includes Inzamam Ul Haq, Mushtaq Ahmed, Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Chris Cairns, Sanath Jayasuriya, Brian Lara, Jimmy Adams, Harbajahn Singh, Abdur Razzaq and Marlon Samuels and Ramnaresh Sarwan.

Today's launch, jointly hosted by New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Martin Snedden, unveiled the tournament draw, venues, logo and trophy.

Ending his speech of welcome Malcolm Gray said: "The players in this Under 19 World Cup have the chance to be the stars of the future. That's a fabulous opportunity, so my closing message is for them to enjoy their cricket, appreciate this wonderful country and return home better players and wiser people."

ICC Media contact:
Mark Harrison
ICC Communications Manager
Tel: + 44 20 7266 7913/1818
Email: mark.harrison@icc-cricket.com

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