Bangladesh is the defending champion and is placed in Group A, alongside England, Canada and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In contrast, the host is placed in Group D along with Australia, Scotland and Sri Lanka. India has been placed in Group B, with Ireland, South Africa and Uganda, while Group C consists of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Zimbabwe. New Zealand has withdrawn citing strict quarantine rules for the minors at home and has been replaced by Scotland.