Muscat, 06 November (H.S.): Powered by an impressive bowling performance from Ishan Sood and unbeaten half-centuries from Aaryavir Sehwag and captain Lakshya Raichandani, India Under-19 registered a commanding 10-wicket victory over Nepal Under-19 in their opening match of the Under-19 Asia Cup on Friday. In the contest played at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, India chased down the target of 129 runs in just 19.1 overs without losing a wicket.

After winning the toss and opting to bowl, India made an impressive start, with Ishan Sood delivering an outstanding spell in the opening overs. On a pitch featuring a light covering of grass, Sood generated swing in both directions and put Nepal’s top order under considerable pressure. During his initial six-over spell, three of Nepal’s top-order batters were sent back to the pavilion.

Thereafter, Darsh Sonar attempted to steady the innings. He stitched together useful partnerships with Niraj Kumar Yadav and Aashish Luhar, helping Nepal take its total past the 100-run mark. The pitch offered little assistance to the spinners in the early stages, allowing Darsh and his batting partners to score runs.

However, following the end of the partnership between Aashish and Darsh, Nepal’s lower order collapsed. The batters continued to lose their wickets while attempting irresponsible shots. Arjun Rajput played a crucial role in wrapping up Nepal’s innings, claiming three wickets. The entire team was eventually bowled out for 128 runs.

During the chase, the Indian batters found that the ball offered little movement after the initial overs. After negotiating the first few overs cautiously, Aaryavir Sehwag and captain Lakshya Raichandani began finding the boundary at regular intervals.

Sehwag took on the spinners, striking lofted shots straight down the ground. He brought up his half-century in just 34 deliveries. At the other end, Raichandani displayed composure, rotating the strike effectively and allowing Sehwag to continue batting in an aggressive manner.

The two batters remained unbeaten as India reached the target in 115 deliveries, completing a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. With this win, India Under-19 moved to the top of Group A with two points and a positive net run rate of 4.170.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar