Century in U19 WC – News Analysis India

India Posts 352/8 in U19 World Cup: Malhotra Hundred Steals Show

News Analysis India — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bulawayo witnessed a batting masterclass from India’s Under-19 side as they amassed 352/8 against Zimbabwe in the Super Sixes stage, thanks to Vihan Malhotra’s gritty unbeaten 109.

Electing to field, Zimbabwe saw India open steadily. Aaron George and Vaibhav Suryavanshi laid the foundation with 44 runs before George was dismissed for 23 (16 balls). Suryavanshi then exploded, racing to 52 off 30 deliveries laced with boundaries and maximums.

Quick dismissals of skipper Ayush Mhatre (21) and Vedant Trivedi (15) had India reeling at 130/4. Vihan Malhotra and Abhijnan Kundu rescued the innings, forging a 113-run stand that took the score to 243. Kundu’s 61 (62 balls) ended there, but Malhotra marched on.

Partnerships with RS Ambrish (52 runs for seventh wicket) and Khilan Patel (47 for eighth) propelled India past 350. Malhotra’s 109* off 107 balls, with seven fours, anchored the massive total.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers toiled hard, led by Chimugoro’s 3/49 in eight overs, Mudzengerere’s 2/51, and Majaye’s expensive 2/86. Dhruv Patel chipped in with one scalp.

This imposing total sets up an exciting chase, testing Zimbabwe’s batting depth while showcasing India’s rising stars’ potential on the global stage.

Vihhan Malhotra’s Century Powers India to 204-Run U19 WC Win

News Analysis India — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bulawayo witnessed a cricketing masterclass from India’s U19 side as they thrashed Zimbabwe by 204 runs in their World Cup opener. Vihhan Malhotra’s majestic 109 led the charge, backed by bowlers who scripted a comprehensive rout.

Electing to field after winning the toss, Zimbabwe watched helplessly as India raced to 352/8. Malhotra’s 107-ball knock, featuring 7 fours, set the tone. The opener’s composure under pressure was key to building a daunting target.

Abhijnan Kundu shone bright with 61 off 62, his 5 fours and a six punctuating a vital 113-run stand with Malhotra for the fifth wicket. This partnership proved decisive, pushing India past 350.

Zimbabwe’s chase unraveled dramatically. Leroy Chivola top-scored with 62 from 77 deliveries, but the rest faltered. At 148 all out in 37.4 overs, they were never in the hunt. Higgins (37) and Chimugoro (29) offered fleeting hope.

Ayush Mhatre starred with the ball, grabbing 3/14 in a spellbinding 4-over burst. Uddhav Mohan matched him with 3/20, RS Ambrish added 1/19, and the Patel duo – Henil and Khilan – sealed the deal with a wicket apiece.

Player of the Match Vihhan Malhotra’s heroics underline India’s depth and firepower, positioning them as serious contenders in the U19 World Cup.