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In a stunning display of prowess, the Indian Under-19 cricket team secured their third successive 200-plus-run victory in the 2024 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. This time, their opponent was New Zealand, and the match unfolded at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.
The Men in Blue put up a formidable total of 295/8, and their bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, restricting the Kiwis to a mere 81 runs. Saumy Pandey was the star with the ball, claiming four wickets for India, while Musheer Khan's splendid century played a pivotal role in securing the victory.
Match Summary:
Adarsh Singh set a positive tone for India after New Zealand elected to field. Despite an early departure for Arshin Kulkarni, Adarsh and Musheer formed a strong partnership, guiding India past the 100-run mark. Musheer's brilliant knock, supported by a crucial 87-run stand with skipper Uday Saharan, helped India finish at 295/8. Mason Clarke took a four-fer for New Zealand.
In response, New Zealand struggled, losing wickets at regular intervals. Skipper Oscar Jackson top-scored with 19 runs, but the Indian bowlers, led by Saumy Pandey's four-wicket haul, dominated the proceedings.
Both Adarsh and Musheer Record 50+ Scores:
Musheer Khan showcased his batting prowess by slamming his second century of the ongoing tournament. His remarkable innings of 131 runs off 126 balls included 13 fours and 3 sixes. Adarsh Singh also contributed with a fine half-century, scoring 52 off 58 balls, featuring 6 fours.
Musheer Joins Elite Club:
According to ESPNcricinfo, Musheer Khan has become only the second Indian batter to score multiple centuries in the Under-19 World Cup. Shikhar Dhawan achieved this feat with three tons in the 2004 Under-19 World Cup.
Musheer Leads Run-Scorers Chart:
Musheer Khan's outstanding form continues as he emerges as the leading run-scorer of the 2024 Under-19 World Cup. With 325 runs from four matches at an incredible average of 81.25, including two centuries (118 vs Ireland) and a fifty (73 vs USA), he stands out at the top. Pakistan's Shahzaib Khan follows closely with 223 runs at an average of 111.50.
Saumy Pandey's Spectacular Bowling Performance:
Left-arm spinner Saumy Pandey stole the show with an exceptional bowling performance, claiming four wickets for just 19 runs in his 10 overs, including two maidens. Impressively, Pandey maintained an economy rate as low as 1.90. Musheer Khan and Raj Limbani also contributed with two wickets each, while Naman Tiwari and Arshin Kulkarni shared two wickets.
Notable Statistics:
- India's victory against New Zealand marks their third consecutive 200-plus-run win in the ongoing Under-19 World Cup, having previously defeated Bangladesh (by 84 runs), Ireland (by 201 runs), and the United States (by 201 runs).
- New Zealand's total of 81 is now their third-lowest score in the history of the Under-19 World Cup. India's first-powerplay scores in the tournament so far: 45/2, 38/1, 40/0, and 61/1.
In conclusion, India's Under-19 team continues to dominate the 2024 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup with an impressive display of batting, bowling, and all-round team performance. Their third consecutive 200-plus-run victory showcases the team's potential and raises expectations for their future matches in the tournament.
