KEY POINTS
- Vihaan Malhotra’s spell of 4/14 after rain break triggered Bangladesh’s collapse.
- Abhigyan Kundu and Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s partnership rescued India from 53/3 to 238.
BULAWAYO: India U-19 staged a brilliant comeback to defeat Bangladesh by 18 runs (DLS method) at Queens Sports Club on Saturday in a rain-hit encounter.
After being bowled out for 238, India’s bowlers, led by a sensational spell from spin-bowling all-rounder Vihaan Malhotra, skittled Bangladesh for 146, chasing a revised target of 165 from 29 overs.
Winning the toss and opting to bowl, Bangladesh made early inroads, reducing India to 53 for 3.
However, a commanding 121-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Abhigyan Kundu (80 off 112) and the aggressive Vaibhav Suryavanshi (72 off 67) steadied the innings and built a competitive total.
Kanishk Chouhan’s brisk 28 provided late impetus before the innings concluded at 238 in the 49th over.
For Bangladesh, seamer Al Fahad was the standout with a five-wicket haul (5/38).
Rain reshapes chase
In reply, Bangladesh started steadily despite an early wicket, reaching 90 for 2 before a prolonged rain delay.
Upon resumption, their target was adjusted to 165 from 29 overs. The interruption proved catastrophic for their chase.
From a comfortable position, Bangladesh capitulated spectacularly, losing 8 wickets for just 56 runs.
The architect of the collapse was Vihaan Malhotra. The off-spinner, brought on after the break, produced a magical spell of 4 wickets for just 14 runs in 4 overs, decimating the middle order.
He was ably supported by pacer Khilan Patel (2/35), who claimed the crucial wicket of Bangladesh captain Azizul Hakim for a fighting 51.
The dramatic victory showcases India’s depth and resilience. After posting a par score, their bowling attack, superbly led by Player of the Match Vihaan Malhotra, exploited the post-rain conditions perfectly to secure a commanding win, making a strong statement early in the tournament.
