Bloemfontein, South Africa: Defending champions India U19 roared back to form with a dominant 214-run victory over New Zealand U19 in a Super Six clash of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup today. Musheer Khan’s scintillating century (102) powered India to a commanding 295/8 despite early jitters, before their potent bowling attack skittled out New Zealand for a mere 81 in 28 overs.
Opting to bat first, India lost opener Arshin Kulkarni cheaply, but Musheer and fellow opener Ayan Singh (29) steadied the innings with a 50-run stand. After Ayan’s departure, Musheer found an able partner in Manav Khan (57), and the duo stitched together a crucial 122-run partnership that laid the foundation for India’s big total. Aravelly’s quickfire 32 late in the innings further bolstered the score.
For New Zealand, only Oscar Jackson (29) offered any resistance with the bat as the Indian bowlers shared the spoils. Raj Limbani (3-13) and Saumy Pandey (3-22) ripped through the Kiwi top order, while the spinners effectively choked the middle and lower order.
The win sees India bounce back from their surprise defeat to Sri Lanka in the group stage and puts them firmly back in contention for a place in the semifinals. They currently top the Super Six Group A with two wins from three matches. New Zealand, on the other hand, are left with an uphill battle after two losses in the Super Six stage.
Key Players:
- Musheer Khan (India): 102 runs, Player of the Match
- Raj Limbani (India): 3 wickets
- Saumy Pandey (India): 3 wickets
- Oscar Jackson (New Zealand): 29 runs
Quotes:
- Musheer Khan: “It feels great to contribute to the team with a big score. We needed a win after the last game, and I’m glad I could play my part. The pitch was good for batting, and the partnership with Manav was crucial.”
- Ravi Shastri (Coach, India U19): “I’m happy with the way the boys responded today. They showed the kind of character we expect from champions. Musheer’s innings was outstanding, and the bowlers were disciplined and clinical.”
- Nathan Overington (Coach, New Zealand U19): “We were outplayed in all facets today. India batted brilliantly, and our bowlers couldn’t contain them. We need to regroup quickly and come back stronger in the next game.”
The ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup continues with Super Six matches ongoing in South Africa. India U19 will next face Australia U19 on February 3rd, while New Zealand U19 take on Sri Lanka U19 on the same day.
India U19 vs New Zealand U19 Super Six Highlights:
Indian Batting Domination:
- Musheer Khan’s Century: The star of the show, Musheer Khan, smashed a magnificent 102 runs, anchoring the Indian innings with a confident performance.
- Solid Openers: Ayan Singh (29) and Musheer provided a strong foundation with a 50-run opening stand.
- Manav Khan’s Support: Manav Khan chipped in with a valuable 57 runs, forming a crucial 122-run partnership with Musheer.
- Late Flourish: Aravelly’s quickfire 32 runs towards the end propelled India to a commanding total of 295/8.
Kiwi Collapse:
- Top Order Dismantled: Raj Limbani (3-13) and Saumy Pandey (3-22) wreaked havoc on the Kiwi top order, claiming crucial wickets early on.
- Spinners Tighten Grip: The Indian spinners effectively choked the middle and lower order, restricting New Zealand’s scoring significantly.
- Oscar Jackson’s Lone Stand: Only Oscar Jackson (29) offered any resistance for New Zealand, but it was too little, too late.
Memorable Moments:
- Musheer Khan’s delightful cover drives and powerful sixes.
- Raj Limbani’s sharp swing bowling and Saumy Pandey’s accurate spin bowling.
- The electric atmosphere at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom.
Overall:
India’s dominant batting display and disciplined bowling performance led to a comprehensive 214-run victory, putting them back on track in the Super Six stage. New Zealand will need to regroup and find their form to compete in the remaining matches.
