India’s Under-19 cricket team kicked off their five-match Youth ODI series against England in spectacular fashion, registering a commanding six-wicket win at Hove. The spotlight was firmly on 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose blistering innings set the tone for a memorable start to the tour.
Suryavanshi’s Fireworks Light Up Hove
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, already a household name after his record-breaking IPL season with the Rajasthan Royals, made his mark in English conditions with a breathtaking 48 off just 19 balls. The left-handed prodigy smashed five sixes and three fours, demolishing England’s bowling attack and thrilling the crowd at the County Ground.
Suryavanshi’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting. He took 21 runs off Jack Home’s first over, including a top-edged pull for six and powerful drives over mid-on and cow corner. His partnership with captain Ayush Mhatre raced to 71 in just 7.3 overs, setting up the chase perfectly for India.
India’s Bowling Unit Shines
Earlier, India’s bowlers had England on the back foot from the start. Spinners Kanishk Chouhan (3/20) and Mohamed Enaan (2/37) were the chief tormentors, sharing five wickets between them and keeping the pressure on throughout the innings. Seamers RS Ambrish (2/24) and Henil Patel (2/41) also chipped in, ensuring England were bowled out for a modest 174 in 42.2 overs.
England’s innings was anchored by Rocky Flintoff, who top-scored with a patient 56 off 90 balls, but lacked support from his teammates. Isaac Mohammed, a debutant related to England’s Moeen Ali, provided a brief spark with a quickfire 42 off 28 balls, but his dismissal triggered a collapse. Flintoff was left stranded as wickets fell regularly at the other end.
The Chase: Suryavanshi and Kundu Steal the Show
Chasing 175, India got off to a flyer thanks to Suryavanshi and Mhatre. The openers put on 70 in just seven overs, with Suryavanshi in particular taking the attack to the bowlers. His innings, though brief, was packed with power and precision, as he targeted both the off and leg side with equal ferocity.
After Suryavanshi’s dismissal, caught off the bowling of Ralphie Albert, India lost a few quick wickets. However, wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu held the innings together with an unbeaten 45 off 34 balls, guiding India home in just 24 overs with 26 overs to spare.
Suryavanshi’s Meteoric Rise
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born on March 27, 2011, in Tajpur, Samastipur, Bihar, he began playing cricket at the age of four under the guidance of his father. After impressive performances for Bihar in domestic cricket and the India U19 team, he was picked up by the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025 mega auction.
At just 14 years and 23 days, Suryavanshi became the youngest player to debut in IPL history. He made an immediate impact, hitting a six off his first ball and finishing the season with 252 runs in seven matches at a staggering strike rate of 206.56. His 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans made him the youngest centurion in men’s T20 cricket and earned him the Super Striker of the Season award.
What’s Next for India U19?
With the first Youth ODI in the bag, India U19 have taken a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The next match is scheduled for Northampton, followed by two more ODIs and a couple of Youth Tests starting July 12.
The team’s dominant performance is a testament to the depth of talent in India’s youth system. Led by Ayush Mhatre and powered by the likes of Suryavanshi and Kundu, the young Indian side looks set to make a strong impression on their England tour.
Key Takeaways
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s 48 off 19 balls set up India’s chase and showcased his explosive talent.
- India’s spinners Kanishk Chouhan and Mohamed Enaan were the pick of the bowlers, sharing five wickets.
- Abhigyan Kundu’s unbeaten 45 ensured India crossed the line comfortably.
- England’s Rocky Flintoff top-scored with 56, but lacked support from the rest of the batting lineup.
- India U19 lead the series 1-0, with the next match in Northampton.
The Making of a Sensation: Suryavanshi’s Journey
Suryavanshi’s rise from a small town in Bihar to the international stage is an inspiring story. His performances in the IPL and for India U19 have made him one of the most talked-about young cricketers in the world. His ability to handle pressure, adapt to different conditions, and play with fearless aggression has set him apart from his peers.
After the match, Suryavanshi shared a heartfelt post with the team’s sports massage therapist, Mangesh Gaikwad, accompanied by the inspiring track “Aashayein” from the movie Iqbal—a fitting tribute to his journey and the dreams of countless young cricketers in India.
Looking Ahead
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Suryavanshi and his teammates to see if they can maintain their momentum. With the next match in Northampton, India U19 will be aiming to extend their lead and continue their dominance over England.
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