India U19 Triumphs Over South Africa U19 in Rain-Impacted Opener

India U19 Secures Victory in Rain-Affected Match

Benoni [South Africa], January 3: Harvansh Pangalia delivered an outstanding performance with a remarkable 93 runs, guiding India U19 to a 25-run win against South Africa U19 using the DLS method in the first match of the series on Saturday.

Pangalia's stellar innings, complemented by R.S. Ambrish's solid 65, enabled India to set a formidable target of 300 runs in their allotted 50 overs.

Although South Africa began their chase strongly, India's bowlers, particularly Deepesh Devendran, who took key wickets, maintained pressure on the hosts to clinch the victory.

While chasing 301, South Africa was at 148/4 after 27.4 overs when rain and lightning halted the game. Unfortunately, the match could not continue, resulting in India being declared the winners via the DLS method.

Proteas opener Jorich Van Schalkwyk contributed with an unbeaten 60 runs, showcasing his skills until the rain disrupted the match.

During the first innings, Ambrish and Pangalia formed a crucial partnership of 140 runs for the fifth wicket, significantly boosting India U19's total to 300.

This partnership was pivotal, as it revived India’s innings after they found themselves struggling at 67 for 4. The middle order displayed commendable resilience to set a competitive score.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who is captaining India U19 in this series, stepped in for the injured Ayush Mhatre and vice-captain Vihaan Malhotra, both of whom are currently recovering.