Teenage Phenom Vaibhav Suryavanshi Blasts 5 Sixes in England Debut, Sparks India U-19 Victory

Vaibhav Suryavanshi's Explosive Debut: Teen Smashes 5 Sixes in England Victory

India's Under-19 cricket team launched their five-match Youth ODI series against England with a resounding six-wicket victory in Hove. The chase of 175 was completed in a mere 24 overs, highlighted by a spectacular debut performance from 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

Suryavanshi, previously recognized as the youngest centurion in men’s T20s during this year’s IPL, representing Rajasthan Royals, electrified the County Ground with a blistering 19-ball 48. His innings featured five towering sixes and three boundaries, setting the stage for India's dominant performance and placing him firmly in the spotlight in his first appearance in English conditions.

The young batsman forged a 71-run partnership with captain Ayush Mhatre in just 7.3 overs before being caught by Ralphie Albert. Following the match, Suryavanshi shared a photo with the team’s sports massage therapist, Mangesh Gaikwad, accompanied by the motivational song Aashayein from the movie Iqbal.

Despite a brief stutter following Suryavanshi's dismissal, wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu steadied the ship with an unbeaten 45, securing India's victory with a remarkable 26 overs to spare.

Earlier in the day, England, after winning the toss and electing to bat, were bowled out for 174 in 42.2 overs. Debutant Isaac Mohammed provided a spark with a quickfire 42 off 28 balls, including four sixes and three fours. Rocky Flintoff contributed a resilient 56, but lacked substantial support as England's innings faltered due to consistent breakthroughs.

India's spin duo, Mohamed Enaan and Kanishk Chouhan, proved instrumental, claiming five wickets collectively and effectively stifling England's progress during the middle overs. The bowlers were well supported by sharp fielding, including a run-out and some excellent catches.

This dominant victory follows India’s impressive 231-run win over a Young Lions Invitational XI in Loughborough earlier in the week, marking a strong start to their tour.