In a scintillating display of power-hitting and leadership, Vaibhav Suryavanshi propelled India U-19s to a series-clinching victory against South Africa U-19s in the second Youth ODI at Willowmoore Park, Benoni on Monday. The young captain's explosive innings not only secured the win but also etched his name in the record books once again.
Chasing a revised target of 174 in 27 overs due to a lightning delay, Suryavanshi walked in and took charge, smashing a breathtaking 68 off just 24 balls. His innings included one four and a staggering 10 sixes, leaving the South African bowlers clueless. Suryavanshi's pyrotechnics ensured India reached the target with ease, winning by eight wickets via the DLS method and securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Suryavanshi's half-century was the third-fastest in Youth ODIs, reaching the milestone in just 19 balls. Only South Africa's Steve Stolk (13 balls) and India's Rishabh Pant (18 balls) have scored faster fifties in U-19 ODI cricket. Afghanistan's Azmatullah Omarzai also shares the record for the third-fastest fifty, also achieving it in 19 balls.
This is not the first time Suryavanshi has broken records in his young career. He also holds the record for the fastest century in Youth ODIs, scoring a 52-ball ton against England U-19 in July of last year. He followed that up with a 56-ball century against UAE U-19 in December.
Earlier in the match, South Africa U-19s were bowled out for 245 in 49.3 overs, with Jason Rowles scoring a resilient 114. Kishan Kumar was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking 4 wickets. In the first ODI, India defeated South Africa by 25 runs under the DLS method. India were bowled out for 300 runs, with Harvansh Pangalia scoring 93 and R.S. Ambrish contributing 65.
While Suryavanshi has been in great form, he had a modest score of 11 in the first ODI. Despite the early dismissal, India managed to post a strong total, thanks to half-centuries from R.S. Ambrish and Harvansh Pangalia.
The series serves as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of the ICC Under-19 World Cup, commencing on January 15. Suryavanshi is leading the Indian side in the series. However, fans in India were unable to watch the match on television due to technical issues faced by the organizers. The matches are being streamed live on Cricket South Africa's official YouTube channel.
With this series win, India U-19s have showcased their strength and determination. Vaibhav Suryavanshi's leadership and batting prowess have been instrumental in the team's success, making him a player to watch out for in the upcoming World Cup.
