Vaibhav Suryavanshi's Blistering Debut Powers India U-19 to Victory Over England

Vaibhav Suryavanshi's Explosive Debut: Teen Sensation Ignites India U-19 Victory with Bollywood Flair

NEW DELHI: India's Under-19 cricket team launched their five-match Youth ODI series against England with a resounding six-wicket victory in Hove. The young Indian squad chased down a target of 175 with ease, completing the chase in just 24 overs, thanks to a spectacular debut performance from 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

Suryavanshi, known for becoming the youngest centurion in men’s T20s during this year’s IPL while representing Rajasthan Royals, electrified the County Ground with a rapid 48 runs off just 19 balls. His innings included a staggering five sixes and three fours, setting the stage for India's dominant performance.

The young batsman forged a 71-run partnership in only 7.3 overs with captain Ayush Mhatre before being caught out by Ralphie Albert after his whirlwind innings. Following the match, Suryavanshi shared a photo on social media with the team’s sports massage therapist, Mangesh Gaikwad, accompanied by the motivational song "Aashayein" from the Bollywood movie "Iqbal," showcasing his vibrant personality.

Despite a brief wobble after Suryavanshi's dismissal, wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu steadied the innings with an unbeaten 45, ensuring India's comfortable victory with 26 overs to spare.

Earlier in the day, England elected to bat but were bowled out for 174 in 42.2 overs. Debutant Isaac Mohammed provided a brief spark with a quickfire 42 off 28 balls, featuring four sixes and three fours, while Rocky Flintoff contributed a solid 56. However, consistent breakthroughs prevented England from building momentum.

Indian spinners Mohamed Enaan and Kanishk Chouhan proved crucial, taking five wickets between them and stifling England's scoring opportunities during the middle overs. The Indian bowlers were well-supported by sharp fielding, including a run-out and some well-judged catches.

This dominant victory follows India’s impressive 231-run win against a Young Lions Invitational XI in Loughborough earlier in the week, highlighting their strong form on the tour.