India win sixth Under-19 WC, Sooryavanshi storm destroys England

India clinched the U19 Cricket World Cup title for a record-extending sixth time, beating England by 100 runs in the  final in Harare on Friday. It is a historic win for Ayush Mhatre-led India, as they set the world record for the largest margin of victory in terms of runs in an U19 World Cup final. 14-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi laid the foundation for India's victory, smashing a breathtaking 80-ball 175 to take them to a total of 411/9 in 50 overs.
India won the toss for the final and opted to bat first. They lost the hero from the semi-final, Aaron George early, but that did not stop them from blazing away to a dashing start. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi took the onus on himself to take India ahead in the competition.The chase was always going to be challenging given the scale of the chase. But England drew inspiration from how easily India chased down the 310 runs against Afghanistan in the semi-final at the same venue.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar heaped praises on the state’s 14-year-old cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose record-breaking ton helped India clinch the ICC U-19 World Cup 2026 title in a dominating fashion. Sooryavanshi's 175 runs in 80 balls, at a staggering strike rate of over 218, helped India amass a massive total of 411 in 50 overs in Harare.

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders on Friday congratulated India’s Under-19 cricket team for clinching the ICC Men’s U-19 World Cup 2026, praising the young side for its dominant and inspiring performance throughout the tournament.
President Droupadi Murmu also extended her congratulations, highlighting the team’s unbeaten run and historic achievement of winning the trophy for a record sixth time. “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,” the President said.
Prime Minister Modi lauded the team for showcasing exceptional skill and consistency en route to the title, saying their achievement would motivate young sportspersons across the country.In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “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.”