Family of U19 World Cup Hero Aaron George Overwhelmed with Pride
The family of India's Under-19 opener Aaron George has expressed immense pride and joy following India's triumphant victory in the 2026 Under-19 World Cup. India secured the title by defeating England by a commanding 100 runs in the final held in Harare on Friday, with George playing a pivotal role throughout the tournament.
Aaron George's Key Contributions
Aaron George was instrumental in India's journey to the championship. His most notable performance came in the semifinal clash against Afghanistan, where he scored a scintillating 115 runs off just 104 balls. This innings, featuring 15 fours and two sixes, propelled India to chase down a target of 311 with seven wickets in hand and 8.5 overs to spare. Overall, George amassed 170 runs in the tournament at an average of 34.00, showcasing his consistency and talent on the global stage.
Family's Emotional Reactions
Speaking to ANI, Aaron George's father, Easo Varghese, shared his overwhelming happiness. "I have no words to describe my joy. The team played exceptionally well and brought the trophy home for India. Aaron has aspired to play for the country since he was just four years old," he said, highlighting his son's lifelong dream.
Aaron's mother, Preethi Varghese, also expressed her pride, praising his bright future and the family's unwavering support. "I am incredibly happy for him; he has made all of us very proud. With his dedication, he has a very bright future ahead. We have always supported him throughout his cricketing journey," she told ANI.
His grandmother recalled Aaron's early interest in cricket, noting that he began playing with a plastic ball and bat at the age of three. "He showed a natural interest in the sport, and his father encouraged him from the start. He was enrolled in coaching at a very young age, which set the foundation for his success," she said.
His grandfather emphasized Aaron's rapid rise in cricket, pointing out that he captained Hyderabad to victory in the 2024 Vinoo Mankad Trophy before representing India at the Under-19 World Cup. "After many years, Hyderabad won the Vinoo Mankad Trophy under his leadership. Now, he's playing a key role in the U19 World Cup team, which is a remarkable achievement," he added.
India's Dominant Victory in the Final
In the U19 World Cup final, India delivered a dominant performance, crushing England by 100 runs. Opting to bat first, India posted a mammoth total of 411/9, setting a daunting target of 412. The innings was powered by Vaibhav Suryavanshi's blistering 175 off just 80 balls, a masterclass in power-hitting that included 15 fours and 15 sixes. Suryavanshi reached his century in 55 balls and his 150 in 71 balls, setting a new record for the fastest 150 in tournament history.
Skipper Ayush Mhatre contributed a steady 53 off 51 balls, while Abhigyan Kundu (40 off 31 balls) and Kanishk Chouhan (37* off 20 balls) helped maintain the momentum, ensuring India crossed the 400-run mark. India's innings also set a new record for sixes in a Youth ODI final, with 31 sixes—surpassing the previous record of 23.
England's chase began shakily, losing Joseph Moores early. Despite a fighting 66 from Ben Dawkins and a late counter-attack of 115 off 67 balls by Caleb Falconer, England was bowled out for 311 in 40.2 overs. India's bowling attack, led by RS Ambrish with 3/56 and supported by Deepesh Devendran and Kanishk Chouhan, ensured a comprehensive victory.
This win adds to India's impressive record in the Under-19 World Cup, with previous titles in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022. England, meanwhile, remains without a second title since their 1998 victory.
