India Under-19 began their five-match Youth ODI series on a high. On Friday, they defeated England by six wickets at the County Ground. 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi gave India a flying start. He smashed 48 runs off just 19 balls, including five sixes and three fours. His incredible strike rate stood at 252.63.
Alongside him, skipper Ayush Mhatre added valuable support. Together, they built a 71-run opening stand in just 45 balls. Mhatre made 21 off 30 balls, hitting four boundaries. However, AM French dismissed him in the eighth over.
India Makes Light Work of the Chase
Chasing a modest target of 175, India batted aggressively. They reached 178/4 in only 24 overs, winning the match with six wickets in hand.
Meanwhile, Abhigyan Kundu ensured a smooth finish. He stayed unbeaten on 45 off 34 balls, hitting four fours and one six.
England Bowlers Fail to Restrict
On the bowling side, AM French led for England. He claimed 2 wickets for 46 runs in 6 overs. In addition, Jack Home took 1/50 in 5 overs, and Ralphie Albert grabbed 1/25 in 4 overs.
Indian Bowlers Shine Early On
Earlier in the day, England U19 chose to bat first. They were bowled out for 174 runs in 42.2 overs. Rocky Flintoff top-scored with 56 from 90 balls, while Issac Mohammed added 42 off 28.
In reply, Indian bowlers dominated. Kanishk Chouhan stood out, taking 3 wickets for just 20 runs in 10 overs, including one maiden.
Furthermore, Henil Patel (2/41 in 8.2 overs), RS Ambrish (2/24 in 6 overs), and Mohamed Enan (2/37 in 10 overs) picked up two wickets each, breaking England’s batting rhythm.
Brief Score
England U19: 174 all out in 42.2 overs (Rocky Flintoff 56, Issac Mohammed 42; Kanishk Chouhan 3/20)
India U19: 178/4 in 24 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 48, Abhigyan Kundu 45*; AM French 2/46)
