India U-19 Crowned World Cup Champions After Crushing England by 100 Runs

India’s Under-19 team clinched the World Cup title in emphatic fashion, defeating England by a commanding 100-run margin in the final at the Harare Cricket Ground on Friday.
After winning the toss, Indian captain Ayush Mhatre opted to bat first. Despite losing opener Aaron George early for just nine runs, India quickly seized control of the match through a devastating partnership between Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryabanshi. The pair added 140 runs for the second wicket in just 90 balls before Mhatre was dismissed for 53.
Suryabanshi continued his onslaught alongside Vedant Krivedi, hammering 89 runs in only 39 balls as India raced to 250 within 25 overs. The young opener reached his century in just 55 balls — the fastest hundred ever in an Under-19 World Cup final — and eventually produced a breathtaking 175 off 80 deliveries, studded with 15 fours and sixes.
Useful contributions from the middle order, including Abhigyan (40), Chauhan (37), Vedant (32), and Vian (30), helped India post a massive 411 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs. For England, James Minto led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Sebastien Morgan and Alex Green claimed two each.
Chasing a daunting target of 412, England began aggressively but failed to halt the steady loss of wickets. Caleb Falconer stood out with a valiant 120 off 70 balls, while opener Ben Dawkins added 66 and Ben Mayers scored 45. However, the rest of the batting lineup could not provide sustained support, and England were bowled out for 311.
India’s bowling effort was led by RS Abrish, who picked up three wickets. Dipes and Chauhan took two wickets apiece, as India maintained pressure throughout the innings.
The comprehensive victory sealed India’s dominance in the tournament and capped off a memorable campaign for the young side, highlighted by Suryabanshi’s historic final performance.