Nita Ambani Applauds India's U19 Cricket Team for Historic Sixth World Cup Title
Reliance Foundation founder-chairperson Nita Ambani extended her heartfelt congratulations to the India Under-19 cricket team following their spectacular victory in the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 final. The young Indian side clinched their sixth title in the tournament's history with a commanding 100-run win over England in Harare, Zimbabwe, on Friday.
A Record-Breaking Performance in the Final
Electing to bat first, India set an imposing total of 411/9 in their 50 overs, a score that proved insurmountable for England. The innings was highlighted by a scintillating knock from Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who smashed 175 runs off just 80 balls, including 15 fours and 15 sixes. Captain Ayush Mhatre provided solid support with 53 runs from 51 balls, while Abhigyan Kundu contributed a brisk 40 off 31 deliveries.
In response, England fought valiantly but fell short, being bowled out for 311 runs. Caleb Falconer stood out for the visitors with a fighting 115, but the team could not chase down the mammoth target of 412. India's bowling attack, led by RS Ambrish who took 3/56, ensured a comprehensive victory.
Nita Ambani's Inspiring Message
In her congratulatory message, Nita Ambani said, "Heartiest congratulations to our Boys in Blue on winning the ICC U19 World Cup for a record sixth time -- a truly historic and inspiring achievement. You have played with courage, discipline, and belief beyond your years. This triumph is not just a trophy -- it is a powerful signal of the spirit of Young India: fearless in ambition, united in teamwork, and relentless in pursuit of excellence. May this victory be the beginning of many greater milestones ahead. The future of Indian cricket shines brighter because of you."
India's Dominance in Youth Cricket
This victory further solidifies India's position as the most successful nation in the history of the ICC U19 World Cup. The win adds to India's previous titles in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022, while England remains with only one title since 1998. Notably, India now holds both the ICC Under-19 Men's and Women's World Cup titles, achieving a rare double in youth cricket.
The match also set new records, with India hitting 31 sixes in the final, surpassing the previous record of 23 in a Youth ODI final. This dominant performance underscores the team's aggressive and fearless approach, which has become a hallmark of Indian cricket at the youth level.
Brief Scores and Tournament Impact
Brief Scores: India: 411/9 (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 175, Ayush Mhatre 53, James Minto 3/63) beat England: 311 (Caleb Falconer 115, Ben Dawkins 66, RS Ambrish 3/56).
The triumph in Zimbabwe not only celebrates the current squad's talent but also signals a bright future for Indian cricket, with players like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre showcasing their potential on the global stage. As Nita Ambani emphasized, this victory is a testament to the spirit and determination of young Indian athletes, inspiring the next generation of cricketers across the country.
