In a gripping encounter at the Under-19 World Cup, India’s off-spinner Vihaan Malhotra delivered a remarkable bowling performance, claiming 4 wickets for just 14 runs, which contributed to an astonishing collapse of the Bangladesh batting lineup. India secured an 18-run victory using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method due to rain interruptions, marking their second straight win in the tournament.
The match saw Bangladesh, who had earlier dismissed India for 238 in a reduced 49-over affair, positioned comfortably in their chase at 102 for 2 after 20 overs. This was well above the DLS par score of 88, suggesting they were on track to chase down the revised target of 165 from 29 overs. However, a spectacular collapse ensued as they lost eight wickets for just 40 runs, ultimately bowled out for 146 in 28.3 overs.
Malhotra’s disciplined off-spin was crucial in shifting the momentum. His spell devastated the Bangladesh middle order, taking out key players like Kalam Siddiki, Sheikh Parvez Jibon, Rizan Hossan, and Samiun Basir. The turning point was emphasized by Bangladesh captain Azizul Hakim’s dismissal; despite scoring a patient 51 runs, he misjudged a delivery from left-arm spinner Khilan Patel, leading to a swift end to Bangladesh’s resistance.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh’s innings had looked promising. After a shaky start, Rifat Beg and Hakim formed a solid partnership, with Beg aggressively contributing 37 runs. Nevertheless, as panic set in following Malhotra’s breakthroughs, the chase quickly unraveled.
India’s innings was solidly built around the performances of Abhigyan Kundu and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who both scored half-centuries to stabilize their side after losing two early wickets. Kundu’s composed 80 and Sooryavanshi’s aggressive 72 were vital in reaching a defendable total. Bangladesh’s Al Fahad was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets and putting pressure on the Indian batting lineup by taking crucial early wickets.
As the tournament progresses, this victory puts India at the top of Group B standings, with four points from two matches. Bangladesh and the USA are still looking for their first points, while New Zealand has yet to commence their campaign.
India’s thrilling win reflects not just the resilience of their bowling attack, led by Malhotra, but also highlights the unpredictability and excitement of the Under-19 World Cup, where fortunes can shift dramatically in a matter of overs.