The victorious U-19 World Cup-winning Indian team received a grand welcome upon their return, with family members and numerous fans greeting the young heroes on Sunday.
India secured a record-extending sixth title in Harare, Zimbabwe, on Friday, defeating England by 100 runs in the final.
Led by Ayush Mhatre, India posted an impressive 411/9, with 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scoring a stellar 175 off 80 balls. They then restricted England to 311 all out in 40.2 overs, achieving a massive win.
India had previously won the tournament in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022.
Skipper Mhatre and star opener Sooryavanshi were the centre of attention at Mumbai airport, while wicket-keeper Abhgyam Kundu also drew some attention from fans and family members
waiting to welcome them.
Mhatre’s entire family, including his parents, aunt, and brother-in-law, was present at the airport. Mhatre had scored 53 off 51 balls in the final.
“We as parents don’t have any words for this excitement because whatever hardwork they were doing for all these years it paid off,” said Mhatre’s proud father Yogesh Kamlakar Mhatre.
“I am very happy that he is bringing the World Cup for his country. He is fond of cricket since childhood and the hardwork he has put in since childhood has bore fruit today. We will celebrate after reaching home,” added Mhatre’s mother.
#WATCH | Maharashtra | ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup champions, Team India, receive a grand welcome as they arrive in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/oaGli87BKz
— ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2026
When Are The Celebrations?
With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup currently taking place in India and Sri Lanka, the BCCI is expected to host a felicitation ceremony for the U-19 team in the future.
According to sources, all the players will return to their respective homes from Mumbai and will reassemble for a felicitation ceremony once announced by the BCCI.
Notably, India remained undefeated throughout the tournament, prompting the BCCI to announce a cash reward of Rs 7.5 crore for the squad.
The squad, coached by Hrishikesh Kanitkar, also defeated arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Six stage.
(With inputs from Agencies)
