VVS Laxman, Ravi Shastri praise India U19 after World Cup win

Story by ANI | Posted by Vidushi Gaur | Date 07-02-2026

VVS Laxman hails India U19's support staff

New Delhi

Former India cricketers VVS Laxman and Ravi Shastri lauded the Indian Under-19 team and its support staff after the side clinched the 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup with a commanding 100-run victory over England in the final at Harare, Zimbabwe, on Friday.

VVS Laxman, Director of the National Cricket Academy, praised the coaching and support staff led by head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar, highlighting their professionalism, meticulous planning and commitment to player development. He described the triumph as a reflection of collective effort and strong teamwork.

In a post on X, Laxman said the campaign showcased the true meaning of teamwork, crediting the staff for their consistent dedication and care for the young players throughout the tournament.

Ravi Shastri, meanwhile, applauded the India U19 squad for their composure, unity and ability to handle pressure in a high-stakes final. He said the manner in which the team approached the game revealed strong character and maturity beyond their years.

Shastri noted that while talent opens doors, temperament ensures longevity, adding that this World Cup victory marked only the beginning of promising careers for many in the squad.

India’s triumph was built on a breathtaking batting performance, led by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s explosive 175 off just 80 deliveries. After opting to bat first, India posted a massive 411 for 9, setting England a daunting target of 412.

Suryavanshi’s knock featured 15 fours and 15 sixes, with the batter reaching his century in 55 balls and his 150 in just 71 balls — the fastest in Under-19 World Cup history. Captain Ayush Mhatre contributed a composed 53, while Abhigyan Kundu and Kanishk Chouhan added quick runs to maintain the scoring momentum. Suryavanshi also set a new tournament record with the most sixes in a single innings.

England’s chase faltered early, despite resistance from Ben Dawkins and a spirited counter-attack by Caleb Falconer, who struck 115 off 67 balls. However, regular wickets ensured England were bowled out for 311 in 40.2 overs.

RS Ambrish led India’s bowling effort with three wickets, supported by Deepesh Devendran and Kanishk Chouhan, who claimed two each.

India’s innings also set a new record for the most sixes in a Youth ODI final, smashing 31 maximums. The title adds to India’s Under-19 World Cup victories in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018 and 2022, further reinforcing the country’s dominance at the youth level.