NEW DELHI: The victorious India Under-19 World Cup-winning squad returned to a grand reception, with family members and a large number of fans gathering to welcome the young champions on Sunday.

India clinched a record-extending sixth title in Harare, Zimbabwe on Friday after thrashing England by 100 runs in the final.

Led confidently by Ayush Mhatre, India piled up a formidable 411 for 9, riding on a sensational 175 off just 80 balls from 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The bowlers then wrapped up England for 311 in 40.2 overs to seal a dominant victory.

India had earlier lifted the trophy in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018 and 2022.

Young stars steal the spotlight

Skipper Mhatre and star opener Sooryavanshi drew the biggest cheers at the Mumbai airport, while wicketkeeper Abhgyam Kundu also attracted attention as fans and family members waited eagerly to greet the players.

Mhatre’s entire family, including his parents, aunt and brother-in-law, were present to welcome him. The captain had played a steady role in the final, scoring 53 off 51 balls.

“We as parents don’t have any words for this excitement because whatever hard work they were doing for all these years has paid off,” said Mhatre’s father Yogesh Kamlakar Mhatre.

“I am very happy that he is bringing the World Cup for his country. He has loved cricket since childhood and the hard work he has put in over the years has borne fruit today. We will celebrate after reaching home,” added his mother.

Felicitation planned as India stay unbeaten

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup currently being staged in India and Sri Lanka, the BCCI is expected to organise a felicitation ceremony for the Under-19 team at a later date.

According to sources, the players will return to their respective homes from Mumbai and reassemble once the BCCI announces the details of the ceremony.

A major highlight of India’s campaign was their unbeaten run through the tournament, following which the BCCI announced a cash reward of ₹7.5 crore for the squad.

The side, coached by Hrishikesh Kanitkar, also registered a notable win over arch-rivals Pakistan during the Super Six stage.

(With PTI Inputs)