India’s under-19 team completed a dominant campaign at the ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026, defeating England U19 by 100 runs in the final at Harare Sports Club to win a record-extending sixth title, more than any other nation in the history of the tournament. The victory was driven by a sensational batting display from teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and a strong overall performance from captain Ayush Mhatre and the Indian batting lineup.
Suryavanshi’s record-breaking masterclass
India batted first after winning the toss and posted a massive 411 for 9 in 50 overs, one of the highest totals in under-19 World Cup final history. Suryavanshi, just 14 years old, stole the show with a breathtaking 175 off 80 balls, smashing 15 fours and 15 sixes at a staggering strike rate above 200. His explosive innings featured the second-fastest century in U19 World Cup final history, reached in just 55 balls, and included the most sixes ever hit in a youth ODI innings.
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The left-hander’s knock also became the highest individual score in a U19 World Cup final, surpassing previous benchmarks set by Indian greats such as Unmukt Chand. In the process, Suryavanshi etched his name into record books as one of the most destructive young talents in the global youth game.
Others make key contributions
While Suryavanshi’s innings was the standout performance, India’s total was built through a series of strong supporting contributions. Skipper Ayush Mhatre played a composed 53 off 51 balls, anchoring the middle overs with smart strokeplay that kept the scoring rate high. Other batters including Abhigyan Kundu (40), Vihaan Malhotra (30) and Kanishk Chouhan (37 not out) provided crucial runs that kept the momentum rolling and prevented any late collapse.
Dominant bowling and clinical victory
Chasing a daunting target of 412, England U19 never found rhythm, ultimately being dismissed for 311 in 40.2 overs. India’s bowling unit applied consistent pressure and took regular wickets to dent the English chase. While England’s Ben Dawkins and Ben Mayes offered some resistance with half-centuries, Caleb Falconer hammered a fighting century. However, the required rate escalated and wickets fell at crucial intervals as they eventually were bowled out 100 runs short of the target,
India’s road to the final
India entered the tournament as one of the favourites and remained unbeaten through the group stage and knockout rounds. En route to the final, the team posted strong totals and defended effectively, with contributions from both bat and ball. In the semifinal, India overcame Afghanistan U19 by seven wickets, led by century-plus performances from Aaron George and strong support from Suryavanshi and Mhatre, earning their 10th appearance in a final.
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Mhatre’s leadership throughout the campaign was notable, blending tactical acumen with temperament, helping India control games from dominant positions. His triumph places him in an elite club of Indian U19 captains who have lifted the World Cup, a list that includes legends such as Mohammad Kaif, Virat Kohli and Unmukt Chand from past editions.
India now hold six U19 WC titles
India’s tally of six U19 World Cup titles is a record-extending one at this age level, reinforcing the nation’s status as a global powerhouse in nurturing young cricket talent. The World Cup has long been a showcase for future stars, and this edition highlighted the depth of India’s emerging crop across batting, bowling and captaincy talent.
The emphatic win over England not only delivered silverware but also provided a confidence boost for a team that has combined youthful exuberance with technical maturity throughout the competition. Suryavanshi’s record-setting innings will be remembered as one of the most remarkable individual performances in under-19 World Cup history, and India’s sixth title adds another proud chapter to the nation’s storied cricketing legacy.
