- India U19 set a competitive total of 290 in Northampton.
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi impressed again with a dynamic innings.
- England’s Alex French grabbed four wickets to stall India’s charge.
India U19 showcased moments of brilliance in the second Youth ODI against England U19 at Northampton, with rising star Vaibhav Suryavanshi once again making headlines.
Despite promising partnerships, India’s middle-order couldn’t capitalize fully as England struck at regular intervals. Jack Home disrupted India’s rhythm with a timely breakthrough, while Alex French delivered a game-changing spell, bagging four key wickets.
England Restrict India U19 to 290 as Suryavanshi’s Fireworks Light Up Northampton
The early overs belonged to India, thanks to a flurry of boundaries from Suryavanshi, who turned the tide after a cautious start. His confidence at such a young age drew comparisons to teenage cricket legends, and his 360-degree strokeplay kept England’s pacers guessing. Though his innings was cut short before reaching a half-century, the impact was substantial.
Captain Ayush Mhatre, a promising name in India’s youth cricket circuit, opted for an aggressive batting approach, but England’s spinners found grip and control midway through the innings. Kanishk Chouhan and Rahul Kumar both got starts, yet neither managed to convert them into big scores—an area India will look to improve in the next match.
England U19’s bowling unit stepped up under pressure. Alex French used the short ball smartly, mixing pace and line to trap batters into false strokes. Jack Home, meanwhile, bowled a disciplined spell and dismissed the well-set Rahul Kumar, putting the brakes on India’s scoring during a crucial phase.
The Indian side, currently leading the five-match series 1-0, will be encouraged by their batting depth but concerned about losing momentum in the second half of the innings. With a total just shy of 300, much depends on how well the young bowlers defend it on a flat track. England, hungry for a series comeback, will be eyeing this as a must-win opportunity.
India U19’s total of 290 sets up an exciting contest, but England’s late fightback means both sides remain in the hunt. A thrilling second innings awaits.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
