Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: India’s Under-19 cricket team created history by winning their sixth ICC U-19 World Cup title with a commanding performance against England at Harare Sports Club on Friday. The victory extends India’s record in the tournament and showcased the exceptional talent of the young side.“India’s cricketing talent shines! Proud of our U-19 team for bringing home the World Cup. The team has played very well through the tournament, showcasing exceptional skill. This win will inspire several young sportspersons too. Best wishes to the players for their upcoming endeavours,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X, congratulating the squad.
The standout performer was 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who smashed a breathtaking 175 off just 80 balls. His innings, filled with confident strokeplay and relentless aggression, set the foundation for India’s mammoth total of 412. India had a shaky start, losing an early wicket, but a second-wicket partnership between Vaibhav and captain Ayush Mhatre turned the momentum decisively in India’s favour.“Heartiest congratulations to India’s Young Champions on lifting the ICC U19 World Cup trophy in Harare, Zimbabwe. A truly historic achievement as India clinches the title for a record sixth time. Special appreciation to young star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his record breaking knock,” wrote vice-president CP Radhakrishnan. “I extend my best wishes to Captain Ayush Mhatre and the entire team on this proud moment for the nation.”The team’s undefeated run and dominant performance earned praise from President Droupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. “Congratulations to our young champs as Team India lifts ICC Men’s #U19WorldCup. Your blazing performance, setting the crowning record of winning the cup for the sixth time, thrilled young players with joy, enthusiasm, and motivation. The nation celebrates your victory,” penned Shah.“Heartiest congratulations to Team India on winning the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026 for the record sixth time! Remaining undefeated throughout the tournament, the team has done the nation proud with its dominant performance. I wish the talented young players a very bright future ahead. I am sure that Indian cricket will go from strength to strength,” wrote Murmu.“In today’s Under-19 World Cup final match between India and England, Bihar’s cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi delivered a spectacular performance… I wish that Vaibhav creates new records for Team India in the future and brings glory to the nation,” Kumar said.With more than 400 runs on the board, England struggled to respond, leaving the Indian bowlers in a commanding position to seal a historic victory. The triumph reflects the confidence, skill, and maturity of India’s youngest cricketers on the world stage.
