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| ACC |
India's U-19 cricket team claimed their first victory in the ACC U-19 Asia Cup 2024 by defeating Japan by a massive 211 runs. The match, held on Monday in Sharjah, witnessed an impressive performance by captain Mohammed Aman, who scored an unbeaten century to lead the team to a commanding total.
India’s Dominant Batting Performance
After losing the toss, India was put in to bat first. The team made a solid start, with openers Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryavanshi adding 65 runs for the first wicket. However, they lost their first wicket in the eighth over when Charles Hinz dismissed Suryavanshi for 23 runs.
Key contributions included:
- Ayush Mhatre: 54 runs (6 fours, 4 sixes)
- Mohammed Aman: 122* runs (118 balls, 7 fours)
- KP Kartikeya: 57 runs
- Andre Siddharth: 35 runs
India posted a formidable total of 339/6 in their 50 overs, leaving Japan with a daunting target.
Japan’s Struggles with the Bat
Japan’s chase started on a poor note, with opener Nihar Parmar scoring only 14 runs and captain Koji Abe dismissed for a duck. India’s bowlers capitalized on the shaky start, dismantling Japan’s batting lineup.
- Hugo Kelly: Top-scored with 50 runs (6 fours)
- Charles Hinz: Remained unbeaten on 35 runs
Seven Japanese batters failed to reach double digits, with three returning without scoring. Japan managed just 128/8 in their 50 overs.
India’s Bowling Brilliance
Indian bowlers delivered a clinical performance, ensuring Japan never gained momentum.
- Chetan Sharma: 2 wickets
- Hardik Raj: 2 wickets
- KP Kartikeya: 2 wickets
Yudhajit Guha also contributed with one wicket.
Captain Mohammed Aman Shines
The standout performer for India was captain Mohammed Aman, who played a match-defining knock. His unbeaten 122 runs not only powered India past the 300-run mark but also showcased his leadership and composure under pressure.
Context of the Tournament
This win marked India’s first victory in the tournament after a disappointing loss to Pakistan by 43 runs in their opening match. With this victory, India has gained crucial momentum as they aim to progress further in the competition.
Playing XI
India U-19:
Ayush Mhatre, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Andre Siddharth (VC), Mohammed Aman (Captain), Nikhil Kumar, KP Kartikeya, Harvansh Singh (WK), Hardik Raj, Samarth Nagraj, Yudhajit Guha, Chetan Sharma
Japan U-19:
Aditya Phadke, Nihar Parmar, Koji Hardgrave Abe (Captain), Kazuma Kato-Stafford, Charles Hinz, Hugo Kelly, Timothy Moore, Kiefer Yamamoto-Lake, Daniel Pankhurst (WK), Arav Tiwari, Max Yonekawa Linn
