BENONI: India U19 skipper Vaibhav Suryavanshi produced a breathtaking knock of 68 off just 24 balls as the visitors chased down a revised target of 174 in 23.3 overs, defeating South Africa U19 by eight wickets via the DLS method on Monday.
With the win, India have sealed the three-match series 2–0, with one match still remaining.
South Africa U19, after opting to bat first, were bowled out for 245 in 49.3 overs. Rain interruptions later revised India’s chase to 174 runs from 27 overs.
Suryavanshi blitz puts India in command
India’s openers Aaron George and Suryavanshi began with aggressive intent, racing to 50 in just 4.1 overs, immediately putting the hosts under pressure. Suryavanshi brought up his half-century in a mere 19 balls, showcasing his attacking prowess.
George was dismissed for 20 off 19 balls with the score at 67/1 in 6.1 overs, but Suryavanshi continued his onslaught. The India U19 skipper smashed 10 sixes and one four before being dismissed by Michael Kruiskamp in the 8.1st over, with India cruising at 103/2 after 10 overs.
Middle order completes the job
Vedant Trivedi and Abhigyan Kundu then ensured there were no further setbacks, calmly guiding India to victory with 21 balls to spare. Trivedi remained unbeaten on 31, while Kundu finished on 48 not out.
For South Africa U19, Michael Kruiskamp was the pick of the bowlers, claiming both Indian wickets and finishing with figures of 2/23 from six overs.
Rowles’ century in vain
Earlier, South Africa’s innings was anchored by a fine century from Jason Rowles, who scored 114 off 113 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. Rowles added 97 runs with Daniel Bosman (31), but the rest of the batting line-up failed to provide meaningful support.
For India, Kishan Singh starred with the ball, returning figures of 4/46 in 8.3 overs. RS Ambrish chipped in with 2/47, while Kanishk Chouhan and Khilan Patel picked up one wicket each.