India were set a target of 246 after South Africa Under-19 were bowled out for 245, but the chase quickly became about one name. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, leading the side, walked out to open and immediately took control, lighting up the contest with a breathtaking start. The 14-year-old tore into the bowling from the outset, racing to 68 off just 24 balls. His innings was built on clean, fearless hitting, with ten sixes and a four clearing the ropes with ease. Vaibhav brought up his half-century in just 19 deliveries, giving India Under-19 exactly the momentum they were looking for at the top of the order. He shared the opening stand with Aaron George, who made 20 before falling early in the chase.
Earlier in the day, South Africa Under-19 had opted to bat first. Jorich van Schalkwyk and Adnaan Lagadien began the innings, contributing 10 and 25 respectively, but neither was able to convert their starts. Captain Muhammed Bulbulia also failed to settle, departing for 14 as wickets fell at regular intervals. The visitors found stability through Jason Rowles, who played the standout innings of the first innings. Rowles scored a composed 114 from 113 balls, anchoring the batting effort when the side needed it most. He received some support from Daniel Bosman, who added 31 off 63 deliveries, but South Africa struggled to build partnerships around them and was eventually dismissed for 245. India’s bowlers shared the workload effectively, with Kishan Singh leading the attack. He delivered a strong spell of 8.3 overs, picking up four wickets while conceding 46 runs. RS Ambrish chipped in with two wickets, while Deepesh Devendran, Kanishk Chouhan, and Khilan Patel claimed one each to ensure South Africa never fully broke free. Vaibhav’s explosive innings once again underlined his reputation as one of the most exciting batters at this level. Last year, he set a benchmark by scoring the fastest hundred in Under-19 cricket, reaching the milestone off just 52 balls against England in Worcester. The ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa is serving as preparation for the Under-19 World Cup, which begins on January 15 across Zimbabwe and Namibia.
