NEW DELHI: India’s record-extending sixth U-19 World Cup triumph on Friday drew rich praise from across the cricketing spectrum, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who hailed the young side for inspiring the next generation with their fearless display in Harare.

The title-winning campaign was sealed by 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s breathtaking 175 off 80 balls in the final, as India thrashed England by 100 runs after piling up a daunting 411 for nine.

Prime Minister Modi praised the team’s effort and its wider impact on Indian sport.

“India’s cricketing talent shines! Proud of our U-19 team for bringing home the World Cup. The team has played very well through the tournament, showcasing exceptional skill. This win will inspire several young sportspersons too. Best wishes to the players for their upcoming endeavours,” Modi posted.

God of cricket Sachin Tendulkar also congratulated the champions, praising both the players and the support staff while reserving special words for Sooryavanshi.

“Champions! So proud of this young group and the fearless cricket they played. Well done to the entire team, including coaches and support staff. Enjoy the moment!

“When you have a Sooryavanshi, a timeless blockbuster is expected! Well done, Vaibhav!” Tendulkar wrote.

Virat Kohli, who had himself captained India to the U-19 World Cup title in 2008, highlighted the country’s sustained dominance at the age-group level.

“Congratulations to the U-19 Indian team for lifting the World Cup once again. Our dominance in the age group cricket and beyond continues. Well done to the whole squad and the support staff,” Kohli posted on X.

Senior men’s team head coach Gautam Gambhir echoed the sentiment, underlining the promise shown by the new generation.

“Proud of you boys! The bright future is here! #IndiaU19,” Gambhir wrote.

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla termed the triumph a commanding statement by the youngsters.

“World Champions again! Heartiest congratulations to the India U19 team on lifting the U19 World Cup. A commanding run throughout the tournament, crowned by a sensational knock from Vaibhav Suryavanshi in the final. Well done to the players and support staff on this memorable triumph,” Shukla said in a post tagged to @BCCI.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav also joined the chorus of praise, applauding Sooryavanshi’s temperament on the biggest stage.

“Absolutely incredible @vaibhavsoorya09. What a special mentality you have, to do this in a final. CLASS knock,” Suryakumar wrote.

The overwhelming praise capped a dominant campaign for the Indian U-19 side, whose emphatic title win has once again underlined the depth and promise of the country’s cricketing pipeline.