The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a total cash reward of Rs 7.5 crore for the Indian Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup-winning team, along with the technical staff and the selection committee, following their dominant title triumph in Zimbabwe.
India clinched a record-extending sixth ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup crown after thrashing England by 100 runs in the final at the Harare Sports Club on Friday. The emphatic victory underlined India’s sustained excellence at the age-group level and further strengthened their position as the most successful side in the tournament’s history.
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“BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia announces a cash award of Rs 7.5 crore for the victorious India U19 team, along with the coaching and support staff and the Junior Cricket Committee, following their glorious unbeaten campaign that culminated in India’s sixth ICC U19 World Cup title in Zimbabwe,” the BCCI social media handle read.
India’s triumph was powered by a breathtaking batting display in the final, headlined by 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The opener smashed a staggering 175 off just 80 balls, laced with 15 fours and 15 sixes, to register the highest individual score ever recorded in an Under-19 World Cup final. Captain Ayush Mhatre (53) and wicketkeeper Abhigyan Kundu (40) provided vital support as India posted a massive 411 for nine.
England began their chase on a positive note, but a collapse in the middle overs derailed their pursuit. Caleb Falconer’s valiant 115 proved to be a lone stand as India’s bowlers tightened the screws to seal a comprehensive 100-run victory.
The title triumph also completed a rare double for Indian cricket, with the country currently holding both the ICC Under-19 Men’s and Women’s World Cup titles, underlining the depth and strength of its grassroots system.
Earlier, Saikia congratulated the young champions and hailed the systems that continue to fuel India’s success at the age-group level. “This outstanding achievement is a testament to the strength of a robust system built on long-term player development, competitive domestic structures, quality coaching programmes supported by dedicated technical staff and a strong talent identification process.”
“Age-group cricket remains a key priority, and the BCCI will continue to invest in and strengthen these foundations for the future. Well done, boys! The nation is immensely proud of you,” he added.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also lauded the Under-19 side, highlighting not just the result but the composure shown throughout the tournament.
“Watching this India Under-19 side lift the World Cup was special. Not just because they won, but because of how they went about it, composed, aware of the moment, and willing to take responsibility when it mattered most.
“These boys handled pressure like seasoned pros and played for each other every step of the way. That tells you a lot about their character. Talent will get you noticed, but temperament is what takes you forward, and this group has plenty of both. Enjoy this win. Savour it. And remember, this is just the first chapter. Indian cricket will be hearing these names for a long time,” Shastri shared on social media.