Intro
Five-time champions India chase sixth crown as unbeaten England test credentials
Harare
Five-time champions India will lean on their fearless batting depth when they take on a confident England in the final of the ICC Under-19 World Cup here on Friday.
Champions in five of the 16 editions held so far, India are the most dominant force in the tournament’s history since its inception in 1988. Friday’s summit clash will mark India’s 10th appearance in a final, underlining their sustained excellence at the global age-group level as they bid to reclaim the title they last won in 2022.
India enter the final unbeaten, buoyed by a commanding semifinal performance against Afghanistan, where they chased down a 300-plus target with remarkable composure. Skipper Ayush Mhatre and opener Aaron George rose to the occasion with innings of substance, signalling timely form at the business end of the tournament.
George’s elegant century in the semifinal, complemented by fluent half-centuries from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Mhatre, showcased India’s attacking mindset. Sooryavanshi, who turns 15 next month, has been one of the standout performers of the competition, already registering three fifties and a century. His audacious strokeplay could once again be decisive on the big stage.
India’s middle order has also delivered consistently, with Vihaan Malhotra chipping in with crucial runs and wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu impressing both with the bat and behind the stumps.
England, however, arrive with momentum of their own, having knocked out defending champions Australia in the semifinals. Led by Thomas Rew, they remain unbeaten and will pose a stern challenge, particularly with their comfort against pace bowling.
India’s seam trio of Deepesh Devendran, Henil Patel and R S Ambrish has been effective so far, but will be tested against an England batting line-up brimming with confidence.
Having beaten England in their only previous final meeting in the 2022 edition, history may favour India — but a collective, disciplined performance will be key to lifting a record-extending sixth title.
