India triumphs over England to clinch sixth ICC U19 ODI World Cup title

India Under-19s underlined their dominance in age-group cricket by clinching the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 title with a commanding victory over England in the final in Harare.

Record five-time champions, having previously lifted the trophy in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018 and 2022, India were appearing in their 10th final and a sixth consecutive summit clash. Determined to go one better after finishing runners-up to Australia in 2024, the young Indians delivered a performance of rare authority on the biggest stage.

Batting first, India posted a colossal 411 for nine, the highest total ever recorded in a U19 World Cup knockout match. The innings was headlined by a sensational knock from 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who struck a breathtaking 175 off just 80 balls. In the process, Suryavanshi became the youngest player to score 150 or more in a U19 World Cup final and registered the fastest century ever in a title match at the tournament.

Captain Ayush Mhatre anchored the innings with a composed 53 off 51 deliveries, while wicketkeeper Abhigyan Kundu added impetus with a brisk 40 off 31. All-rounder Kanishk Chouhan provided a late flourish, remaining unbeaten on 37 from 20 balls to push the total beyond England’s reach.

Chasing an imposing target of 412, England never truly threatened and eventually fell short by 100 runs. They were dismissed well short of the target despite a spirited effort from Caleb Falconer, who stood out with a valiant knock amid the collapse.

The emphatic victory not only secured India’s sixth U19 World Cup title but also reaffirmed the depth and strength of the country’s youth cricket system, once again setting the benchmark for the rest of the world. (With inputs from Agencies)