India’s record-extending sixth ICC Under-19 World Cup triumph on Friday sparked widespread praise from across the global cricketing community, with legends and current stars lauding the team’s dominance and fearless brand of cricket in Harare.
The title-winning campaign was capped by a once-in-a-generation performance from 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed a breathtaking 175 off just 80 balls in the final against England. Riding on his extraordinary knock, India posted a mammoth 411 for nine before bowling England out for 311, sealing a commanding 100-run victory.
Virat Kohli Salutes India’s Continued Age-Group Dominance
Former India captain Virat Kohli, who led India to the U-19 World Cup title in 2008, congratulated the young side and highlighted the country’s sustained success at the junior level.
“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,” Kohli posted on X.
Gautam Gambhir: ‘The Bright Future Is Here’
India men’s senior team head coach Gautam Gambhir echoed similar sentiments, underlining the promise shown by the new generation.
“Proud of you boys! The bright future is here! #IndiaU19,” Gambhir wrote.
Ashwin, Harbhajan Laud Fearless Modern Cricket
Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin described India’s campaign as a reflection of fearless, evolving white-ball cricket.
“A flawless campaign powered by talent, fearlessness and audacity. The white ball game keeps on moving rapidly and this batch of under-19s have shown us how much more they are willing to push with the bat,” Ashwin said.
He added that the team’s confidence and intent made it “scary to think” how high par scores could climb in the future.
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh also hailed the emphatic win, calling it a thoroughly dominant display.
“UNDER-19 WORLD CUP CHAMPION. What a dominating performance. Congratulations Team India,” Harbhajan posted.
Suryakumar Yadav, Steyn, Bishop Praise Sooryavanshi’s Brilliance
India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav reserved special praise for Sooryavanshi’s mindset and composure on the biggest stage.
“Absolutely incredible @vaibhavsoorya09. What a special mentality you have, to do this in a final. CLASS knock,” he wrote.
South African pace legend Dale Steyn joined the chorus, predicting a glittering future for the teenage prodigy.
“Everyone’s tweeting about him, I may as well too… This kid, wonder boy, he’s gonna win an IPL before he finishes school,” Steyn said.
Former West Indies fast bowler and commentator Ian Bishop praised the collective effort of the Indian team.
“India’s U19 team didn’t just turn up with a galaxy of stars to rest on their laurels. They turned up and turned on the power and flex. They worked hard, played smart and deserve this win,” Bishop wrote.
Mayank Agarwal Hails Electric Performance
India batter Mayank Agarwal summed up the mood by applauding the fearless approach shown throughout the tournament.
“Fearless cricket on the biggest stage! An absolutely electric performance by the India U-19 boys. A World Cup win powered by intent, skill, and a record-breaking knock by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the final. Really exciting future for Indian cricket,” Agarwal said.
India last won the U-19 World Cup in 2022, and this latest triumph further cements the country’s status as the most successful side in the tournament’s history—once again showcasing the depth of talent and strong development structure feeding Indian cricket.