Manjot Kalra emerged as the man for the big occasion, scoring a sublime 101 not out off 102 balls to guide India to their fourth Under-19 World Cup title after an eight-wicket rout of Australia in the final on Saturday. After the historic win, cricketers took to social media and applauded the Prithvi Shaw-led team's effort. Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar posted a video message on his Twitter handle and wrote: "With great team work, big dreams work. Congratulations to our World Champions!! We are proud of you. A big congratulations to Rahul and Paras for their guidance".
WITH GREAT TEAM WORK, BIG DREAMS WORK. Congratulations to our WORLD CHAMPIONS!! We are proud of you. A big congratulations to Rahul and Paras for their guidance. #ICCU19CWC #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/w0heorY8g6
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 3, 2018
With a fourth crown, India surpassed Australia in the race for most U-19 World Cup titles. Prior to the final, India and Australia were locked at three titles each.
Here's how other cricketers lauded the young bloods.
Every Indian is delighted, all credit to Rahul Dravid for committing himself to these young kids ,and a legend like him deserves to lay his hands on the WC. Only Fitting. #INDvAUS
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) February 3, 2018
Congratulations to the Indian team on dominating the #U19WorldCup and being the deserved champions. Everyone stood up and maintained the intensity throughout the tournament. Truly memorable win. Cherish and soak in this moment. #INDvAUS
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 3, 2018
Well Done, India. So proud. So happy for Dravid. This is not just a win...this is the story of Indian dominance throughout the tournament. ?????????? ?? #INDvAUS #U19CWC
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) February 3, 2018
Congratulations boys. Dominated throughout the tournament. Special shoutout to Rahul Dravid sir. Can't have a better mentor #FutureStars #Champions
— Yuzvendra Chahal (@yuzi_chahal) February 3, 2018
Great work by the U-19 team to remain undefeated in the World Cup. Truly deserving winners. Your work has just begun, enjoy this moment!
— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) February 3, 2018
A special shoutout to #RahulDravid who has continuously worked hard behind the scenes to help this team achieve its true potential. #ICCU19CWC
Congratulations to the young lads on winning #U19CWC! Fantastic performances all around. #INDvAUS
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) February 3, 2018
The team's performance was also a fitting tribute to coach Rahul Dravid, who finally got his hands on a World Cup trophy.
Under Dravid, the side had finished runner-up in the 2016 edition in Bangladesh.
India's previous title came in Australia six years ago when the Unmukt Chand-led team beat the hosts in the final.
The Virat Kohli-led side was victorious in 2008 while Mohammed Kaif was captain when India triumphed way back in 2000.
- India lifted their fourth Under-19 World Cup title
- India beat Australia by eight wickets in the final
- India had finished runner-up in the 2016 edition in Bangladesh
