Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the teenage batting sensation, announced his arrival on the international stage with a breathtaking display of power hitting in the first Youth ODI between India U19 and England U19. The match, held at the County Ground in Hove on Friday, witnessed Suryavanshi's whirlwind knock of 48 runs off just 19 balls.
The 14-year-old opener showcased his fearless approach, smashing five towering sixes and three boundaries, setting the stage for India's successful run chase.
Chasing a target of 175, Suryavanshi, along with captain Ayush Mhatre, provided a blistering start for India U19, amassing 71 runs in a mere 7.3 overs. His explosive innings was cut short just two runs shy of a well-deserved half-century when he was caught by Tazeem Chaudry Ali off Ralphie Albert's bowling in the eighth over. Mhatre soon followed, departing for 21 off 30 deliveries.
Despite the quick fall of wickets, the target proved to be manageable for the Indian team. India U19 cruised to a commanding six-wicket victory with a staggering 156 balls to spare. Wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu sealed the win with a six in the 24th over, remaining unbeaten on 45 off 34 balls.
Earlier in the day, England U19 opted to bat first but were bundled out for 174 in 42.2 overs. Rocky Flintoff, son of former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, emerged as the top scorer for the hosts with a resilient 56 off 90 balls, which included three sixes and an equal number of boundaries.
India's bowling attack dominated the proceedings, with Kanishk Chouhan leading the charge, claiming an impressive 3 wickets for 20 runs in his allotted 10 overs. Mohamed Enaan (2/37), RS Ambrish (2/24), and Henil Patel (2/41) provided valuable support, each contributing with two wickets to dismantle the England batting lineup.
Prior to the tour, Suryavanshi expressed his enthusiasm to iplt20.com, stating, "I will get a good experience of playing in England. We will try to win a trophy from there as well.”
If his sensational debut is any indication, Indian cricket might have discovered yet another promising star for the future.
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