India clinched their record-extending sixth ICC U19 World Cup title, reinforcing their dominance in world youth cricket.
India’s Under-19 cricket team delivered a commanding performance to beat England by 100 runs in the final of the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe on February 6, 2026.
The victory secured India’s record-extending sixth U19 World Cup crown, underlining their dominance at the junior level of international cricket.
Sooryavanshi’s Heroics Steal the Show
The star of the final was 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed a breathtaking 175 runs off just 80 balls, including 15 fours and 15 sixes.
This was the highest individual score in the history of a U19 World Cup final. His explosive knock laid the foundation for India’s imposing total.
Sooryavanshi’s innings broke multiple records and was a key driver for India, posting 411/9, the joint highest score in a U19 World Cup final.
Massive Target Sets Up Decisive Win
After winning the toss and electing to bat, India’s batsmen demolished the England bowling attack.
Captain Ayush Mhatre contributed a solid 53 runs, while support came from Vedant Trivedi, Vihaan Malhotra, and Abhigyan Kundu as India raced past 400 runs.
England’s chase started off promisingly, but a mid-innings collapse resulted in the loss of crucial wickets.
This led to their downfall from 174/3 to 177/7, and ultimately, they were bowled out for 311.
Strong Performance Despite England Fightback
England wasn’t without resistance. Caleb Falconer produced a resilient century—scoring 115 runs in 67 balls—but it wasn’t enough to bridge the vast gap India had created.
India’s bowling attack, backed by tight fielding, ensured the chase was never truly on, sealing a 100-run victory and the tournament crown.
Historic Sixth U19 World Cup Triumph
This title marks India’s sixth ICC Under-19 World Cup win, the most by any nation in the history of the tournament.
Previous U19 World Cup wins for India came in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022—making 2026 another landmark year.
India now stands as the most successful team in U19 men’s cricket. Continuing its legacy of producing future stars for senior international cricket.
Future Stars and Big Performances
Sooryavanshi’s innings was not only record-breaking but also highlighted India’s pool of emerging talent.
His performance drew widespread praise from cricket analysts and fans alike, noting his composure under pressure on the sport’s big stage.
The win adds to India’s rich legacy at the youth level and suggests a bright future for the nation’s cricketing prospects.
Key Facts & Highlights
- Final Match: India vs. England—U19 World Cup 2026 final, Harare Sports Club.
- Result: India won by 100 runs.
- India Total: 411/9 (50 overs).
- England Total: 311 all out (40.2 overs).
- Top Performer: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi—175 runs (Player of the Match & Tournament).
- India’s U19 title: 6 (record-extending).
Reactions & Impact
Cricket fans and commentators around the world praised India’s dominant display.
Sooryavanshi’s innings stood out as one of the most remarkable individual performances in the history of the U19 World Cup.
The result also reinforced India’s position as a powerhouse in youth cricket. (NDTV Profit)