“Don’t Chase the Century”: VVS Laxman’s Words That Inspired Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Historic 175 in U-19 World Cup Final

India’s 14-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi delivered one of the most unforgettable knocks in Under-19 World Cup history during the ICC U-19 World Cup 2026 final. Facing England in the title clash, the young opener played a breathtaking innings of 175 runs off just 80 balls, powering India to a record sixth U-19 World Cup trophy.

But behind this historic performance was a powerful piece of advice from one of Indian cricket’s most respected names — VVS Laxman.

Vaibhav Reveals His Pre-Match Conversation with VVS Laxman

After the final, Suryavanshi opened up about a special conversation he had with VVS Laxman, the Head of Cricket at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. He revealed that Laxman’s guidance helped him stay calm and focused before the biggest match of his young career.

In a video shared by ICC on its official Instagram account, Vaibhav said:
“I spoke to Laxman sir yesterday. He told me, don’t run after the 100. Follow your process, trust your strengths. The hundred will come automatically.”

Those simple yet impactful words proved to be the turning point for the young batter, who had not scored a century throughout the tournament until the final.

Fastest Hundred, Fearless Batting

Vaibhav played an extraordinary innings and reached his century in just 55 balls, becoming the second-fastest centurion in U-19 World Cup history. He then continued his assault on England’s bowlers, turning the final into a one-sided contest.

His final score of 175 runs included:

• 15 fours
• 15 sixes
• Strike rate: 218.75

The knock not only stunned the opposition but also etched Vaibhav’s name into cricket history.

Record-Breaking Feat: Most Sixes in an U-19 World Cup Innings

With 15 towering sixes, Suryavanshi created another record, becoming the player with the most sixes in a single U-19 World Cup innings and also in a Youth ODI innings.

His fearless strokeplay showcased why he is being seen as one of India’s brightest future stars.

India Clinch Record Sixth U-19 World Cup Title

Thanks to Vaibhav’s explosive innings, India posted a massive total of 411/9, setting England a daunting target of 412 runs. Despite England’s fight, they were eventually bowled out for 311 runs, handing India a commanding 100-run victory in the final.

With this win, India lifted the U-19 World Cup trophy for the sixth time, further strengthening their reputation as the most dominant nation in youth cricket.

A Future Star in the Making

Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s historic innings was not just about runs—it was a reflection of confidence, clarity and mental strength. And the credit, as the young batter himself admitted, also goes to VVS Laxman’s golden advice that helped him focus on the process rather than milestones.

The cricket world has now witnessed the rise of a new sensation—one who could soon become a major name in Indian cricket.