In a thrilling display of skill and determination, India secured a resounding seven-wicket victory against New Zealand in the U-19 World Cup on Saturday, thanks to skipper Ayush Mhatre’s explosive 53 runs off just 27 balls. With this win, India showcased their dominance in the tournament once again, comfortably surpassing a revised target of 130 runs in just 13.3 overs during a rain-shortened match.
The Indian bowling attack, spearheaded by RS Ambrish (4 wickets for 29 runs) and Henil Patel (3 wickets for 23 runs), put New Zealand on the back foot, restricting them to a mere 135 runs in 36.2 overs after they opted to bat first in challenging, wet conditions.
Though India faced an early setback with the loss of Aaron George for 7 runs, a solid partnership between Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored 40 off 23 balls, and Mhatre ensured a swift and decisive chase, culminating in India’s third consecutive victory that places them at the top of Group B.
**Match Summary:**
New Zealand: 135 all out in 36.2 overs (C Samson 37*; RS Ambrish 4-29, H Patel 3-23)
India: 130-3 in 13.3 overs (A Mhatre 53, V Sooryavanshi 40) – India won by seven wickets.