A resolute century from England U19 captain Hamza Shaikh helped his team secure a draw against India U19 in the first Youth Test at the Kent County Cricket Ground in Beckenham. The match, which spanned four days, saw India setting a target of 350 runs for England on the final day. Despite losing seven wickets, England managed to hold on, finishing at 270/7, largely thanks to Shaikh's impressive innings of 112.
India U19 had a strong start to the match, with captain Ayush Mhatre leading the charge with a century in the first innings. Mhatre's ton, along with half-centuries from Rahul Kumar, Abhigyan Kundu, and Vihaan Malhotra, propelled India to a formidable 450/7 at stumps on Day 1. India ultimately posted 540 in their first innings. In response, England U19 struggled early on, but a resilient partnership between Shaikh and Rocky Flintoff steadied the ship. Flintoff, son of former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, missed out on a century, getting dismissed for 93. Shaikh and Flintoff forged a 154-run stand for the third wicket. England were eventually bowled out for 439.
In their second innings, India U19 aimed to set a challenging target for the hosts. Vaibhav Suryavanshi contributed a quickfire half-century, further extending India's lead. India U19 were eventually bowled out for 248, setting England a target of 350.
England's chase began cautiously, but they lost wickets at regular intervals. Deepesh Devendran struck early, dismissing Archie Vaughan. However, Shaikh anchored the innings, building crucial partnerships to keep England in the game. Ben Mayes also contributed valuable runs, forming an 88-run partnership with Shaikh. Despite the pressure and India's persistent attack, Shaikh remained composed, reaching his half-century and eventually his century.
The Indian bowlers fought hard, but Shaikh's resilience proved to be the difference. India managed to take seven wickets, but couldn't dismiss Shaikh, who held the innings together. The match ended in a draw, with England finishing at 270/7. Shaikh's century was a testament to his skill and determination, earning him accolades and ensuring his team salvaged a draw.
The match was live-streamed on the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) YouTube channel. The two teams will now face each other in the second Youth Test at the County Ground in Chelmsford.
