Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar congratulate India U19 with heart-warming posts for record sixth World Cup win

Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar have led an outpouring of praise for India's team after their commanding victory in the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026 final. The Ayush Mhatre-captained side defeated England by 100 runs in Harare on Friday (February 6), securing India's record sixth title and reinforcing their dominance in junior cricket. The legends' heartfelt messages on social media captured the excitement surrounding the young stars' fearless performance.

Virat Kohli's heartfelt message

Virat Kohli, one of the modern greats and a strong supporter of youth development, wasted no time in sharing his joy. He posted on X, “Congratulations to the U-19 Indian team for lifting the World Cup once again. Our domination in the age group cricket and beyond continues. Well done to the whole squad and the support staff.”

Sachin Tendulkar lavishes praise

Sachin Tendulkar, the iconic figure whose records inspire this generation, expressed deep pride in the team's spirit. His message read, “Champions! So proud of this young group and the fearless cricket they played. Well done to the entire team, including coaches and support staff. Enjoy the moment! When you have a Sooryavanshi, a timeless blockbuster is expected! Well done, Vaibhav!”

Tendulkar singled out 14-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose explosive innings became the talk of the tournament, drawing a fun comparison to a cinematic hit.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's record-breaking knock

Batting first, India produced a breathtaking display. Opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed 175 off only 80 balls, the highest score ever in a U19 World Cup final, including 15 fours and 15 sixes, lighting up the Harare pitch. Captain Ayush Mhatre steadied the innings with 53 off 51 balls, while Abhigyan Kundu (40) and Kanishk Chouhan (unbeaten 37 off 20) added crucial runs, taking India to 411/9 in 50 overs.

Disciplined bowling seals comprehensive victory

England's chase started promisingly with Caleb Falconer's fighting 115 off 67 balls. Yet India's bowlers never let the pressure ease, picking wickets at regular intervals and restricting the opposition to 311 all out in 40.2 overs. The 100-run margin reflected India's complete control throughout the tournament.

This unbeaten run to the title highlighted India's place as the most successful team in U19 World Cup history.

List of U19 World Cup winners

6 titles - India (2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022, 2026)

4 titles - Australia (1988, 2002, 2010, 2024)

2 titles - Pakistan (2004, 2006)

1 titles - England (1998)

1 titles - South Africa (2014)

1 titles - West Indies (2016)

1 titles - Bangladesh (2020)