Henil Patel Shines with Five Wickets in U19 World Cup Opener Against USA
Patel's Impressive Performance
New Delhi, Jan 16: India’s U19 fast bowler Henil Patel has credited former South African star Dale Steyn as a major influence behind his outstanding performance against the USA in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Patel achieved remarkable figures of 5 wickets for just 16 runs, leading India to a comfortable six-wicket victory and marking a strong start to their U19 World Cup journey. He expressed that Steyn has always been his favorite bowler, and he strives to emulate Steyn's bowling technique.
"Dale Steyn's aggression is something I admire greatly," Patel shared with ICC Digital. "His bowling was so exceptional that batters found it extremely challenging to face him."
This performance ranks as the third-best bowling display by an Indian in the history of the Men’s Under-19 World Cup, surpassed only by Kamal Passi’s 6 for 23 against Zimbabwe in 2012 and Anukul Roy’s 5 for 14 against Papua New Guinea in 2018.
Patel's early breakthroughs came during a potent new-ball spell at Queens Sports Club, leaving the USA in a precarious position at 34 for 4. The 18-year-old attributed his success to targeting the stumps and consistently seeking wickets.
"I aim to dismiss the batter within three to four deliveries," Patel stated. "I approach training with a focused mindset, preparing my body, and I maintain that same approach during matches. Early wickets are crucial, and I remain composed while pursuing them."
After winning the toss, India opted to field first, and Patel quickly justified that choice with a fiery opening spell that dismantled the USA's top order. He claimed three wickets within the first 12 overs, reducing the USA to 35/4.
The Indian bowlers continued to apply pressure on the USA's middle order, with Deepesh Devendran, Ambarish RS, Khilan Patel, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi each contributing a wicket. Patel returned to finish off the innings, claiming the first five-wicket haul of the tournament and bowling the USA out for a mere 107 runs in 36 overs.
India is set to face Bangladesh in their next Group A match on Saturday.