History was made in Harare as India’s U19 cricketers crushed England by 100 runs to bag their sixth World Cup crown in 2026, led by skipper Ayush Mhatre. This emphatic win places India atop the all-time list, with a lineage of captains who have repeatedly delivered under pressure.
The captains’ chronicle is inspiring: Mohammad Kaif in 2000, the fiery Virat Kohli in 2008, Unmukt Chand in 2012, Prithvi Shaw in 2018, Yash Dhull in 2022, and now Ayush Mhatre in 2026. Each has contributed to a legacy of excellence that sets global benchmarks.
Match highlights were electric. Batting first after winning the toss, India amassed 411/9, anchored by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s masterful 175. England’s reply ended at 311 in 40.2 overs, marking the first 100-run final victory in tournament history—better than Australia’s 79-run edge in 2024.
Statistical fireworks abounded: 722 total runs, surpassing 2014’s 634 and 2004’s 631. A whopping 31 sixes—19 by India, 12 by England—set a new youth ODI record. On the leaderboard, Australia’s four titles (1988, 2002, 2010, 2024) lag behind, with Pakistan (2004, 2006) and others holding fewer.
This isn’t just a win; it’s a testament to India’s youth development system. Past captains like Kohli and Shaw transitioned seamlessly to the big stage, and Mhatre’s squad hints at the same potential. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide applaud as India cements its dynasty in Under-19 cricket.