Suryavanshi’s Historic Smash Leads India to Clinch ICC U-19 World Cup
India created history by winning the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2026, defeating England by 100 runs in the final in Harare on Friday. The victory handed India a record sixth title at this level. It was also the biggest win by runs in the history of an U19 World Cup final. The triumph was built on a sensational knock from 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The youngster smashed a stunning 175 off just 80 balls. His innings powered India to a massive 411 for 9 in 50 overs. England attempted a fightback during the chase. Caleb Falconer played a brave innings of 115 from 67 deliveries. However, the target proved far too steep. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. Suryavanshi enjoyed a dream outing. He was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series. Reflecting on the success, he said, “We have worked together for eight to nine months for this. Captain Ayush Mhatre proudly lifted the trophy after the win. He credited the team’s performance and legacy. “We are happy that we have carried forward the legacy set by Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur,” Mhatre said. With this win, India now hold the U19 World Cup, the senior Women’s World Cup, and the Men’s T20 World Cup titles. The victory was the result of a complete team effort. Mhatre contributed with both bat and ball throughout the tournament. Aaron George played a crucial century in the semi-final. Vihaan Malhotra delivered a standout performance against Bangladesh. Kanishk Chouhan played several important cameos and shone against Pakistan. With the ball, RS Ambrish and Henil Patel picked up 11 wickets each. Khilan Patel impressed with valuable contributions in batting, bowling, and fielding.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi Creates History with Record Century in U-19 World Cup Final
Fourteen-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi created history. He scored the fastest century in an Under-19 World Cup final. The Indian youngster reached the milestone in just 55 balls against England. He did not stop there. Suryavanshi went on to score a stunning 175 runs off 80 balls. It became one of the most dominant innings in a World Cup final. His knock included 15 sixes and 15 fours. It showed his fearless and attacking approach. India won the toss and chose to bat first. Suryavanshi took control from the beginning. He attacked the English bowlers without hesitation. He kept the scoreboard moving at a rapid pace. Out of his 175 runs, 150 came through boundaries. His innings crushed England’s bowling attack. It also made him the biggest star of the tournament. With this historic knock, Suryavanshi has announced his arrival on the world stage. He is now seen as one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket. This achievement adds to his growing list of records. Suryavanshi first grabbed global attention in April last year. He smashed a six off the very first ball he faced in the Indian Premier League. Soon after, he created another milestone. He became the youngest player to score a century in men’s T20 cricket. He reached the hundred in just 35 balls while playing for Rajasthan Royals against Gujarat Titans. The innings also became the second-fastest century in IPL history. Only Chris Gayle’s iconic 30-ball hundred in 2013 remains faster. His dominance continued in youth international cricket. In July 2025, Suryavanshi smashed the fastest recorded century in a youth ODI at that time. He scored 143 runs from just 78 balls against England at Worcester. He reached his century in 52 balls. In doing so, he broke Kamran Ghulam’s previous 53-ball record set for Pakistan in 2013. With record after record, Suryavanshi is rapidly building a legacy. His fearless batting and consistency at such a young age have made him one of the most exciting prospects in world cricket.
Harshit Rana Likely to Rule Out of T20 World Cup
Harshit Rana is speculated to miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 due to injury. He suffered an injury during the warm-up match against South Africa on Wednesday. The all-rounder was seen leaving the field limping. According to the sources, he is suffering from joint tenderness. The skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, while reflecting on the situation, stated, “Harshit does not look good. We will know today.” He further expressed, “If Harshit is ruled out, it will be a big blow. We will have to look at other combinations. But we have enough bench strength.” Rana gave away 16 runs in one over his struggles were evident during the match. Yadav, talking about the possible replacement, the skipper stated in the pre-match press conference that they will not necessarily include another all-rounder in the squad. “We shall see. No hard and fast rule that he has to be an all-rounder,” In the warm-up fixture, India registered a comfortable 30-run victory. In-form Ishan Kishan continued his red-hot run, blasting a rapid 53 off just 20 balls, laced with seven sixes and two fours, as India piled up a daunting 241 for five after opting to bat on a batting-friendly surface. The bowlers then produced a collective effort, with Suryakumar Yadav and his men using as many as nine bowling options. Abhishek Sharma was the standout, picking up two wickets, as South Africa were restricted to 210 for seven. India is now scheduled to play tomorrow against the USA in their first clash of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Hazlewood Ruled Out Due To Injury, Raising Concern For the Squad
Australia has dealt another blow as their spearhead fast bowler, Josh Hazlewood, has now ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 due to injury. Pat Cummins’s absence had already fractured the team now, losing the service of the fastbowler will drive further rupture into the squad. The new development came just a day before the marquee tournament, announced by the national Australia selector Tony Dodemaide. He stated that the team is expecting Hazlewood’s participation from the Super 8 stage, however, the chances remain closely unachievable. “We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super Eights stage, but the latest indications are that he is still some time away,” Dodemaide expressed. “Trying to accelerate his program would carry too much risk. “We will not be naming a replacement player immediately. We feel we are well covered for the initial games and will make any later decisions based on priority need at the time.” For the first time in a world tournament, Australia will be without their famed “Big Three,” with both fast bowlers ruled out and Mitchell Starc retired from T20Is. Earlier this January, Australia confirmed that Pat Cummins would not take part in the 2026 T20 World Cup, having been ruled out with a persistent back injury dating back to last year’s tour of the West Indies. Australia’s ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Squad: Australia squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
Virat Applaud RCB on Securing Women’s Premier League Title
Virat Kohli expressed his heartfelt wishes just a few moments after RCB secured the win in WPL. The famous ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdu’ chant is no longer just a hopeful slogan. It has now turned into a symbol of complete domination. The landmark win triggered a heartfelt reaction from the franchise’s biggest icon, Virat Kohli. Soon after the final ball was bowled, Kohli took to social media and applauded the team. He praised the players for their determination, fighting spirit, and ability to deliver under pressure. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) created history on Thursday night by winning the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 final. With this victory, the franchise now holds both the IPL and WPL titles at the same time, a first in its history. Kohli wrote, “Champions again. Keeping the RCB flag flying high and something that each one of you can be proud of.” He further demonstrated, “To Smriti and the whole squad and the management team, a big congratulations for this tremendous victory. You guys deserve this undoubtedly. Enjoy the moment and embrace the love of our amazing fans.” RCB, one of the most followed teams, had secured their victory run, two years ago in 2024. The men followed as they broke their long time block in IPL trophy under Rajat Patidar lead in 2025. The WPL 2026 final at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara turned into a thrilling contest. Records were broken throughout the match. Delhi Capitals, playing their fourth straight final, delivered a powerful batting display. They scored 203 for 4, the highest total ever in a WPL final. Jemimah Rodrigues led the charge with a solid 57, putting RCB under massive pressure. RCB, however, responded with confidence and composure. Captain Smriti Mandhana led from the front with a stunning innings. She scored a brilliant 87 off just 41 deliveries. Mandhana found strong support from Georgia Voll, who played an outstanding knock of 79. The duo stitched together a massive 165-run partnership that completely shifted the momentum. Delhi’s bowlers struggled to contain the attack. RCB faced some nervous moments towards the end but stayed calm. They chased down the target with two balls remaining, registering the highest successful run chase in WPL history. RCB’s 2026 season highlighted their remarkable consistency. The team controlled the league stage with authority. They won six out of eight matches and secured a direct entry into the final. Smriti Mandhana played a crucial role in their success. She remained in outstanding form throughout the tournament. Mandhana finished as the highest run-scorer and claimed the Orange Cap. Her performances showed that captaincy strengthened her game rather than adding pressure.
“BCCI is at fault for it”; Former Indian Bowler Backs Gambhir
Munaf Patel, former Indian ace fast bowler, backed Gautam Gambhir while holding the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) accountable for the national team’s decline. Patel, in a recent interview with ‘Breaking Sports with Vivek Sethia’, stated, “Why we are losing at home is because our batters don’t know how to play spin. And the BCCI is at fault for it. They have stopped offering turning pitches in domestic cricket. They have made it mandatory that at least 6 mm of grass be on pitches. How will it turn?” Gambhir has faced severe criticism from the sports fraternity for India’s decline in Test Cricket at home. However, Munaf supported Gambhir, stating he should not be blamed for the downhill journey of India in Test Cricket. “Earlier, our curators would prepare pitches as per our strengths. And hence, when India plays at home, we dish out turning wickets. So clearly, you don’t understand where to get your feet and bat,” Munaf said. He added, “Everyone’s blaming Gautam Gambhir. He’s being unfairly targeted. He is not batting out there. The ones who are aren’t prepared enough.” The bowler further expressed, “Why are you targeting one person? He is a good coach. He’s won an ICC title and drawn the Test series in England.” India failed to secure their spot for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025. After the team’s defeat against South Africa, they lost their possibility of sealing a spot in the WTC 2027 final. The national team now is preparing for the T20 World Cup 2026 and the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.
Gautam Gambhir Seeks Blessings as India Gear Up for Home T20 World Cup Title Defence
India head coach Gautam Gambhir began the build-up to the home T20 World Cup with a visit to Mumbai’s Shree Siddhivinayak Temple on Thursday. He offered prayers to Lord Ganesha ahead of the tournament. Batting coach Sitanshu Hargovindbhai Kotak accompanied him during the visit. The defending champions will open their title defence on Saturday. They face the United States of America at the Wankhede Stadium. The venue is one of the most iconic grounds in Indian cricket. Gambhir has followed a similar routine on recent tours. Earlier this season, he visited the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati before the third T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand. After that fixture, Gambhir and the Indian squad also sought blessings at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple in Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, ahead of the fourth T20I. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India enter the tournament as one of the clear favourites. A successful campaign would see them become the first team to successfully defend a men’s T20 World Cup title. No host nation has ever lifted the trophy. India now have the opportunity to rewrite history. Preventing them from achieving both milestones will require something special. India’s strength lies in their depth and balance in the shortest format. This squad is widely considered stronger than the side that went unbeaten across the USA and West Indies two years ago. Their last T20I series defeat came in August 2023. Since the previous World Cup, they have maintained an outstanding win-loss ratio of 6.5, a remarkable feat in a format known for unpredictability. Preparation has been equally impressive. Under Suryakumar’s captaincy, India recently secured five-match T20I series wins against South Africa and New Zealand. Their dominance over the Proteas continued in the official warm-up match on Wednesday, where India registered a 30-run victory. With momentum firmly on their side, India now turn their focus to the opening clash against the USA.
Ronaldo To Boycott Second Consecutive Match in Saudi Pro League
Cristiano Ronaldo adamant to boycott his second consecutive Saudi Pro League match. The streak is coming after his reported frustrations with Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF). Sources told ESPN that Ronaldo is unhappy with the club’s management and level of investment. Cristiano Ronaldo did not feature in Al Nassr’s 1–0 win over Al Riyadh on Monday. The absence was a protest against what he believes is inadequate investment in the club. He also feels the imbalance gives rivals Al Hilal a clear competitive advantage. Sources told ESPN that Ronaldo’s future is now uncertain. If no changes are made in the coming weeks, he could leave the club as early as June. That would be well before the end of his contract, which currently runs until 2027. Cristiano Ronaldo trained with Al Nassr earlier this week. He shared photos on social media wearing the club’s colours on Wednesday. However, Al Nassr’s official X account only posted images of head coach Jorge Jesus and other players. Ronaldo did not feature in those posts. The veteran forward has made his position clear. His return to competitive action depends on the restoration of full decision-making powers to the club’s management. He also wants assurances that the interference seen in the recent transfer window will not be repeated later this year. Al Nassr currently sit second in the Saudi Pro League. They trail leaders Al Hilal by one point and have 46 points. The club is set to face sixth-placed Al Ittihad on Friday. Ronaldo’s frustration grew after key changes behind the scenes. Sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo were suspended by PIF in recent months. The decision disrupted transfer plans, blocked the arrival of top players, and led to a reduction in club spending. Sources told ESPN that Al Hilal, meanwhile, received a major financial boost from Saudi prince Alwaleed bin Talal Alsaud. The billionaire businessman is one of the club’s key backers. His funding was used to strengthen Al Hilal’s squad. All of Al Hilal’s signings in the recent transfer window were financed by Alwaleed, including the deal for Karim Benzema. He holds a 25 percent stake in the club. The remaining ownership lies with the Public Investment Fund. The situation has added to Cristiano Ronaldo’s frustration. He is yet to win a major title with Al Nassr. Sources say he has received interest from clubs in Europe and the United States. However, he is reluctant to move, fearing it could affect his preparation for the FIFA World Cup. The Saudi Pro League is keen to retain one of its biggest stars. According to sources, Al Nassr and PIF have assured Ronaldo of significant investment in the summer transfer window. One of the names discussed is Portugal teammate and Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
Bangladesh Officials Are Sceptical About Pakistan’s Boycott
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials are sceptical about Pakistan’s match ‘boycott’ row. The India-Pakistan turmoil is far from resolving rather, it is getting more complicated day to day. Interestingly, a part of BCB officials is not pleased with Pakistan’s decision. Given the geopolitics, arch-rivalry, and history, the Pakistan-India match is one of the most popular and highest revenue-generating matches, with the numbers touching a ceiling of USD 500 million (Rs 4,500 crore). PCB’s boycott will lead to hefty financial loss. In a recent interview with Prothom Alo, a senior BCB director stated, “If the India-Pakistan match does not take place, the entire cricketing world will face financial losses. Even our dividend will decrease. We did not want such losses.” The official, with the condition of anonymity, added that Pakistan’s strategy behind the step was very apparent. “Pakistan wanted to send a strong message to Indian cricket. They wanted to challenge India’s dominance. From that perspective, the decision may make sense.” Another official closely involved in the decision to exclude Bangladesh expressed concern, according to the same report, that the move would lead to a decline in ICC revenues. “This will directly affect the ICC’s central revenue pool. Like everyone else, we are also stakeholders in that fund. Take Kenya or Uganda, for example. They would be satisfied with USD 100,000-200,000. But given our infrastructure, how will we survive if ICC revenues decline?” the BCB director stated.
India Script World Record While Stunning Afganistan in U-19 World Cup
Aaron George produced a stunning century as India stormed into the ICC U-19 World Cup final with a record chase of 311 against Afghanistan in the second semi-final in Harare. Chasing a stiff target, George anchored the innings with a fluent 115 off 104 balls before falling in the 40th over. India completed the chase in just 41.1 overs and will now face England in Friday’s final. The chase was powered by an explosive start from Vaibhav Suryavanshi. He smashed 68 off just 33 balls, hitting nine fours and four sixes. His assault took India to 90 runs inside the first 10 overs and eased early pressure. Captain Ayush Mhatre played a calm and crucial role in the middle, scoring 62 to keep the chase on track. Earlier, Afghanistan posted a strong 310 for 4. Uzairullah Niazai and Faisal Shinozada both struck commanding centuries, pushing India under pressure heading into the chase. After the match, Mhatre said, “Afghanistan started very well with the bat. Our bowlers did well in the middle overs, but they got away from us in the last ten. Our message was simple—play our natural game.” He added, “The wicket was very good, a flat surface. We knew that if we played naturally, the target was manageable.” Speaking about Suryavanshi’s impact, the skipper said, “He played a massive role. Getting 90 runs in the first 10 overs released all the pressure and made things easier for everyone else.” India’s 311 is their highest successful chase in U-19 World Cup history. While it was heartbreak for Afghanistan, reaching the semi-finals remains a significant milestone for a team that continues to rise at both senior and junior levels. India now face England in the final, with both sides unbeaten and chasing the U-19 world crown.
