India cemented their dominance in youth cricket with a resounding 100-run victory over England in the ICC Under-19 World Cup final at Harare on February 6, 2026, claiming their record-extending sixth title in the prestigious tournament.

The match will be remembered for one name above all others: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 14-year-old prodigy delivered an innings that rewrote the record books, smashing an extraordinary 175 off just 80 deliveries. His spectacular knock included 15 boundaries and 15 towering sixes, representing the highest individual score ever recorded in an Under-19 World Cup final.

Sooryavanshi's assault on the English bowling attack was relentless from the outset. He reached his century in a mere 55 balls before accelerating even further, bringing up his 150 in just 71 deliveries, the fastest 150 in the tournament's history. The teenage sensation batted with the composure and power of a seasoned international, leaving the English bowlers searching for answers that never came.

Captain Ayush Mhatre provided valuable support with a steady 53, while Abhigyan Kundu contributed 40 runs as India amassed a monumental total of 411 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs. This imposing score established a new benchmark as the highest total ever posted in an Under-19 World Cup final, a testament to India's batting depth and fearless approach.

Facing a target that seemed insurmountable, England needed a miracle. Caleb Falconer attempted to provide one, playing a magnificent counterattacking innings of 115 off 67 balls. At 174 for 3, England appeared to be mounting an unlikely challenge, keeping their hopes alive in what had seemed a lost cause.

However, the match pivoted dramatically in India's favor during a devastating 18-ball passage of play that effectively ended England's resistance. The bowling attack, spearheaded by RS Ambrish who claimed 3 wickets for 56 runs, triggered a spectacular collapse that saw England slide from 174 for 3 to 177 for 7. The middle order crumbled under pressure, and despite Falconer's heroics, England were eventually bowled out for 311 in 40.2 overs.

The victory completed a perfect campaign for the Indian colts, who remained unbeaten throughout the tournament with seven wins from seven matches. This dominant run through the competition underlined why India continues to be the standard-bearer in youth cricket, producing generation after generation of talented cricketers who graduate to the senior ranks.

Celebrations erupted across India as news of the triumph spread. Political leaders, cricketing legends, and fans united in congratulating the young champions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, batting icon Virat Kohli, and former Indian women's captain Mithali Raj were among those who extended their wishes to the victorious squad.

For Sooryavanshi, this tournament represents just the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career. His performances have drawn comparisons to some of India's greatest batting talents, and the cricketing world will be watching closely as he progresses through the ranks. The Under-19 World Cup has long served as a proving ground for future stars, and Sooryavanshi's name has been written alongside the legends who preceded him.

India's sixth title further extends their lead as the most successful nation in the tournament's history, reinforcing their position as the dominant force in developing young cricketing talent on the world stage.