New Delhi – In a commanding display at the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Super Six stage, Vihaan Malhotra scored his first-ever century at the under-19 level, helping India set a formidable target of 353 runs against Zimbabwe.
Put into bat first, India’s innings was anchored by Malhotra’s impressive unbeaten 109 off 107 balls, which included seven fours. His steady approach at the crease kept India’s momentum alive and laid a strong foundation for their total.
Supporting Malhotra, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continued his stellar World Cup form with a quickfire 52 off just 30 balls, featuring four sixes and an equal number of boundaries. Abhigyan Kundu also made significant contributions with a 62-ball 61, including five boundaries and a six. Khilan Patel added 30 runs towards the end of the innings, helping India reach a commanding score.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers tried to contain the Indian batters, with Tatenda Chimugoro claiming three wickets and Panashe Mazai and Simbarashe Mudzengerere taking two wickets each. India-born Dhruv Patel also chipped in with a wicket, but their efforts were insufficient to stop India’s run spree.
India remains unbeaten in the tournament, having secured victories in all three matches so far. They began their campaign with a 6-wicket win over the USA, followed by an 18-run victory against Bangladesh, and most recently, a 7-wicket win against New Zealand.
The Indian U-19 team continues to showcase their strength and consistency in the tournament, aiming for a strong finish in the Super Six stage.