In a spectacular final at Harare Sports Club, the India Under-19s delivered a dominant performance to defeat England Under-19s by 100 runs and lift their record-extending sixth ICC Under-19 World Cup title on February 6, 2026.
India won the toss and elected to bat first, putting together a massive total of 411/9 in 50 overs. The defining moment came from 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who played one of the most explosive innings in youth cricket history:
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: 175 runs off 80 balls — a new record for the highest individual score in an Under-19 World Cup final, packed with powerful strokes and unmatched aggression.
- Ayush Mhatre (Captain): 53 off 51 balls provided key support in building the innings.
Several valuable contributions down the order helped India clear the 400-run mark, setting England an imposing target of 412 to win.
Despite the considerable target, England’s youngsters put up a spirited chase:
- Caleb Falconer: 115 runs in a valiant effort to counter India’s bowling attack.
- Ben Dawkins: 66 runs provided early momentum.
However, England couldn’t sustain the required run rate as India’s bowlers made breakthroughs at crucial moments. England finished 311 all-out in 40.2 overs, falling short by 100 runs.
Highlight Moment
India U19 champions –> 6th Under-19 World Cup title.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi named Player of the Match for his record 175.
India set the highest team total in an Under-19 World Cup final with 411/9.
England’s Cory backed by a standout century from Falconer, but it wasn’t enough.