India arrived at the U19 World Cup with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as the focus. His impressive 175 in the final dazzled, but the title was forged by range, resilience and timely contributions across the team, underscoring India’s deep talent pool and the limitless possibilities ahead for a generation poised to rise. TOI takes a look at the class of 2026…
T20 World Cup: ‘God changed my destiny’ – Mohammed Siraj on feelings of happy return
Vaibhav SooryavanshiAged just 14, he emerged as the poster boy of the World Cup, mirroring the impact of Yuvraj Singh in 2000 and Virat Kohli in 2008. His 175 off 80 balls against England in the final was a statement of his talent.MRunsHSAve10050SR6s743917562.7113169.530I hate MalhotraThe middle-order batsman scored 240 runs in seven games, including an unbeaten 109 against Zimbabwe in the Super Six. As a fan, Virat Kohli showed talent and temperament to end crunch games.MRunsHSAve10050SR6s7240109*601083.620Ayush MhatreThe skipper emerged as the heartbeat of India’s triumph, combining calm leadership with timely runs. He scored crucial half-centuries in the semi-final and final and gave India stability.MRunsHSAve10050SR6s72146230.5703113.214Aaron GeorgeThe stylish dough rose to the occasion when it mattered most. In the semi-final against Afghanistan, he made a solid 115 off 104 that took the team to the final.MRunsHSAve10050SR6s517011534101124R AmbrishThe rare bowling all-rounder has consistently impressed with his new ball. The 18-year-old from Chennai, who operated at long range in opening the attack, took 11 wickets.MWicketsAveBest4WISRER71120.634/29125.094.93
