Defending champions India U-19 demonstrated their cricketing prowess as Saumy Pandey’s four-wicket haul, coupled with skipper Uday Saharan and Sachin Dhas’s remarkable 215-run partnership, led to a commanding 132-run triumph over Nepal in the ongoing U-19 World Cup on Friday at Mangaung Oval.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India set a challenging target of 298 runs. Opening batsmen Adarsh Singh and Arshin Kulkarni laid a foundation with a 26-run partnership. Despite early wickets, Uday Saharan’s splendid century and Sachin Dhas’s contribution powered India to 295/8 in their allotted 50 overs. Nepal’s Gulshan Jha emerged as their leading wicket-taker with three scalps.
In response, Nepal faced early challenges, losing their top-order to Saumy Pandey’s left-arm spin. Raj Limbani’s breakthrough paved the way for Saumy to dismantle Nepal’s middle order. Although skipper Dev Khanal fought valiantly with a knock of 33, Saumy’s crafty bowling led to a collapse, leaving Nepal struggling at 77/7. Aakash Chand and Durgesh Gupta displayed resilience in an unbeaten last-wicket stand, putting up 45 runs, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a 132-run defeat.
India’s victory secured their spot in the U-19 World Cup, showcasing their dominance in South Africa. Saumy Pandey’s exceptional bowling performance earned him four crucial wickets, playing a pivotal role in India’s control over the game.
Brief Score:
– India: 295/8 in 50 overs (Sachin Dhas 116, Uday Saharan 100; Gulshan Jha 3/56)
– Nepal: 165/9 (Dev Khanal 33; Saumy Pandey 4-29, Arshin Kulkarni 2-18)
33; Saumy Pandey 4-29, Arshin Kulkarni 2-18).
