Bermuda will host the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Americas Division 1 Qualification Tournament in August next year.

With Ryan Steede announced as coach of the age group, taking over from Clay Smith, the Bermuda Cricket Board confirmed that some of the region’s finest emerging talent will be heading to these shores.

“The Bermuda Cricket Board is pleased to announce that Bermuda will host the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Americas Division 1 Qualification Tournament in late August of 2027,” read a statement from the BCB.

“The tournament will bring emerging cricket talent from across the ICC Americas region to Bermuda, providing an exciting opportunity for local cricket fans to witness the next generation of international players competing for a place at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.”

Bermuda last staged a high-profile event in 2023, when the island welcomed Canada, the Cayman Islands and Panama for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Americas Regional Final.

“This will mark the fourth ICC event hosted by Bermuda since 2023, highlighting the island’s growing reputation as a capable and trusted host for international cricket,” the BCB added.

“Hosting an ICC qualifying event is a significant achievement for Bermuda and reflects the island’s continued commitment to developing cricket at all levels while strengthening its position as an international cricket destination.

“Hosting the 2027 ICC Under-19 World Cup Qualifiers is a fantastic moment for Bermuda cricket.

“This tournament not only puts our world-class facilities and passionate cricket community on the international stage, but it also provides our youth players with an unprecedented opportunity to compete against top global talent on home soil.

“We look forward to welcoming the teams, officials and fans to Bermuda for a spectacular celebration of cricket.

Lloyd Smith, the BCB president, thanked the ICC for awarding Bermuda the hosting rights.

“The BCB extends its sincere appreciation to the International Cricket Council for trusting Bermuda to deliver another important international event,” Smith said.

“The continued confidence placed in Bermuda is a testament to the work being done across the local cricket community and the island’s ability to host high-quality international competitions.

“The BCB looks forward to working with the ICC, participating teams, Government of Bermuda, Corporate Bermuda, our member clubs, volunteers and community partners to ensure the tournament is a success and creates a positive experience for participating teams, officials, visitors and the local community.”

With Steede taking over as coach, the BCB is hoping the former national team player can bring his extensive coaching experience.

“The BCB is pleased to announce the appointment of former national team cricketer and experienced youth coach Ryan Steede as head coach of the Bermuda Under-19 cricket team,” the cricket board said.

“Steede brings a rich legacy of international playing experience and grass roots coaching pedigree to the post.

“A key member of the landmark national squad during Bermuda’s historic Cricket World Cup qualification campaign, Steede pairs an elite playing background with extensive experience in youth development, talent identification and high-performance coaching in local cricket.

“Steede assumes leadership of the national youth programme as Bermuda builds towards a major international milestone on home soil.

“His primary focus will be preparing the squad to compete in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Americas Division 1 Qualifier, which Bermuda will host in late August 2027.

“The tournament presents a crucial opportunity for the national team to qualify for the 2028 ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in front of a home crowd.”

The BCB president expressed his delight at the new coach taking over.

“We are delighted to welcome Ryan Steede into the role of head coach,” he said.

“Ryan’s journey from a national squad player in the 2007 World Cup era to a dedicated mentor in local youth development brings invaluable tactical insight and strong leadership to our high-performance pathway.

“Hosting the regional qualifiers in 2027 gives our players an unprecedented opportunity to compete on home soil and under Ryan’s guidance, we are confident in our squad’s ability to prepare thoroughly and push for qualification for the 2028 World Cup.”

“In his role, Steede will oversee high-performance preparation, player tactical development and squad selection ahead of the 2027 home qualifiers.”

Steede expressed excitement on his appointment to the role of taking care of the island’s budding cricketers.

“It is an honour to step into this role at such a defining moment for Bermuda cricket,” Steede said.

“Having represented Bermuda on the World Cup stage and spent years working closely with young cricketers, I know what it takes to build both skill and character at the international level.

“My primary focus is to instil discipline, strong work ethic and tactical sharpness into this squad so we can capitalise on hosting in 2027 and secure our spot at the 2028 U19 World Cup.”