India’s Under-19 World Cup 2026 winning captain Ayush Mhatre received a special honour from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in Mumbai after leading the country to a historic title win. The young skipper was warmly welcomed and felicitated by CISF officials, marking a proud and emotional moment for the champion and his family.
Mhatre captained India to their record sixth ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup title, defeating England by 100 runs in the final held at Harare Sports Club, Zimbabwe, on February 6, 2026.
Ayush Mhatre played a key role throughout the tournament with both bat and ball. His consistent performances and calm leadership helped India dominate the competition.
Ayush Mhatre – U19 World Cup 2026 Performance
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Matches | 7 |
| Runs | 214 |
| Batting Average | 30.57 |
| Strike Rate | 113.22 |
| 50s | 3 |
| Final Score | 53 (51 balls) |
| Semi-final Score | 62 (59 balls) |
| Wickets | 7 |
| Best Bowling | 3/17 vs Pakistan |
His all-round contribution proved crucial, especially in knockout matches where he led from the front.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Special Gift for the Young Captain
After returning to Mumbai, Ayush Mhatre had a memorable meeting with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. The Master Blaster gifted him a special Test jersey from his final Test series.
U19 World Cup ✔️
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 9, 2026
Blessings from the God Of Cricket himself ✔️
Onward, Ayush 💛🤩#WhistlePodu
📽️: Ayush Mhatre pic.twitter.com/dHMTNgnMnX
The jersey carried a handwritten message:
“Dear Ayush, wishing you all the success in your career.”
Sachin also advised the young captain to stay focused, work hard, and avoid distractions — a moment that quickly went viral and was seen as a symbolic passing of inspiration from one generation to the next.
Grand Welcome at Home
The celebrations for the young captain did not stop there. The Indian U19 team received a hero’s welcome at Mumbai Airport, while Mhatre’s hometown Virar organised a grand reception where large crowds gathered to celebrate their local hero.
The Champion is Home! 🏠💛
— Arshy (@imArshit) February 9, 2026
Ayush Mhatre, U19 World Cup-winning captain, gets the hero’s welcome he deserves! 🥹🎉#U19WorldCuppic.twitter.com/oEVCX832V3
Beautiful visuals from Ayush Mhatre's home 🥺pic.twitter.com/1n1UZLg91y
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) February 6, 2026
Speaking after the honour, Mhatre credited the entire team for the success, saying the victory was the result of collective effort and hard work.
Rising Star of Indian Cricket
Born on 16 July 2007 in Virar, Mumbai, Ayush Mhatre is already part of the Mumbai domestic setup and has also been associated with Chennai Super Kings, making his IPL debut in 2025.
With this achievement, he joins an elite list of Indian captains who have won the U19 World Cup, including Mohammad Kaif, Virat Kohli, Unmukt Chand, Prithvi Shaw, and Yash Dhull.
Also see: Dasun Shanaka Smashes Fastest T20 World Cup Fifty for Sri Lanka
Ayush Mhatre Profile
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 16 July 2007 |
| Birthplace | Virar, Mumbai |
| Role | All-rounder |
| Domestic Team | Mumbai |
| IPL Team | Chennai Super Kings |
| U19 World Cup | Winner (Captain) – 2026 |
The felicitation by CISF reflects the strong connection between India’s security forces and sporting achievements. It also highlights how young athletes like Ayush Mhatre are becoming national inspirations at an early stage.
With leadership skills, all-round ability, and strong temperament, the young captain is now seen as one of the bright prospects for India’s future. If his growth continues at this pace, a place in the senior national team may not be far away.
