India U-19 coach Rahul Dravid (left) with skipper Prithvi Shaw

It's considered the stepping stone for the stars of the future and 16 teams, including three-time champions India, would be aiming to discover their Virat Kohlis and Steve Smiths when the ICC Under-19 World Cup starts off here today. From Kohli to Smith, most modern-day greats have learnt the ropes in the biennial event, which has gained significance with every passing edition. The event begins today with Pakistan taking on Afghanistan, and hosts New Zealand facing reigning champions West Indies.