Indian 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi unleashed a ferocious batting masterclass in the Under-19 World Cup final against England on Friday, smashing a record-breaking 175 off just 80 balls as India claimed their sixth title with a 100-run victory.
The teenage sensation’s explosive knock at Harare Sports Club, featuring an eye-watering 15 fours and 15 sixes, propelled India to 411-9 in 50 overs after they won the toss and elected to bat first.
Suryavanshi’s innings shattered the previous record for the highest individual score in the tournament final, surpassing compatriot Unmukt Chand’s unbeaten 111 against Australia in 2012.
“We were just thinking that, like we did well in the tournament, we should focus on our process and everyone should try to play to their strengths,” Suryavanshi said after picking up awards for both the player of the match and the tournament.
“I had faith in my skills. I knew that I would contribute to the team in a good game or a bad game. Today it happened on the ground.”
Despite Caleb Falconer’s fighting knock of 115 in the middle order after opener Ben Dawkins set up England’s run-chase with a quick-fire 66, they were all out for 311 as India registered the biggest victory margin in an Under-19 World Cup final.
