The Aryavarth Express
Bulawayo: India Under-19 captain Ayush Mhatre praised Vaibhav Suryavanshi for displaying composure and maturity under pressure after the batter played a crucial knock in India’s hard-fought win over Bangladesh at the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026.
Suryavanshi scored a vital 72 off 67 balls as India edged past Bangladesh by 18 runs in a rain-affected Group B match on Saturday. The second innings was reduced to 29 overs due to rain, but India held their nerve to register their second consecutive victory and remain unbeaten in the tournament.
“He showed the maturity that he’s got and batted really brilliantly. He also showed patience when the team needed him to stay at the crease,” Mhatre said, as quoted on the ICC website.
The Indian skipper noted that batting conditions were challenging, with a sticky pitch and the ball coming on slower than expected. “It was tough initially, but the way Abhigyan Kundu and Vaibhav batted was excellent. Later, Kanishk Chouhan also contributed well,” he added.
India posted 238 runs batting first, with Kundu anchoring the innings with a composed 80 off 112 balls. He shared a crucial 62-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Suryavanshi, who adopted a more aggressive approach. Chouhan provided finishing touches with a brisk 28 off 26 balls.
Chasing a revised DLS target of 165 from 29 overs, Bangladesh were bowled out for 146 in 28.3 overs, handing India a thrilling 18-run victory.
Praising Kundu’s consistency, Mhatre said, “He’s batting really well in this tournament and is in great form. It’s a big boost for the team.”
Calling it a significant win, Mhatre added that the team remains focused on playing its natural game. India will now have a short break before their next Group B match against New Zealand on January 24 in Bulawayo.
