Rajkot, 23 September (H.S.):

Captain Lakshya Raichandani struck an unbeaten 110 as India U-19 defeated Australia U-19 by six wickets on Wednesday to complete a 3-0 clean sweep in the three-match Youth ODI series.

Playing at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Raichandani remained unbeaten on 110 from 106 deliveries, hitting nine fours and three sixes. After failing to convert promising starts into substantial scores in the first two matches, the India captain produced a composed century in the series finale to guide his side comfortably to the target.

Chasing 255, India made a brisk start, with Raichandani and Aaryavir Sehwag adding 58 runs for the opening wicket. Raichandani then joined forces with Kushagra Ojha, and the pair put together an 85-run partnership for the third wicket to strengthen India’s position.

Aaryavir struck five boundaries and appeared to be settling in before he failed to properly time a shot off Jacob Peet. Matthew Lough took a straightforward catch at long-on to end his innings. V.K. Vineet also failed to make a significant contribution, but Raichandani kept the chase on course.

After Kushagra’s dismissal, Raichandani remained firmly in control. Rajat Baghel, who came into the side in place of Anvay Dravid, provided excellent support with an attacking 44 from 34 balls, including five fours and two sixes.

India reached the target in 41.2 overs, finishing on 255 for four.

Earlier, Australia won the toss and elected to bat on a flat pitch before posting 254. Jed Hollick top-scored with 87 from 88 balls, including 12 fours, while Neil Patel contributed 51 from 71 deliveries. The pair added 62 runs for the second wicket as Australia looked to build a competitive total.

India debutant Aryan Savsani broke the partnership by dismissing Hollick, giving the hosts a crucial breakthrough and helping shift the momentum.

The Indian pace attack then tightened the pressure on Australia, with Mohit Ulwa and Manal Chauhan claiming three wickets apiece. Their regular breakthroughs prevented the visitors from accelerating towards a bigger total.

With the series already secured, India rested several regular players for the final match. Despite the changes, the bowlers delivered a disciplined performance before Raichandani’s assured captain’s innings completed a convincing 3-0 series sweep.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar