IPL's youngest recruit Vaibhav Suryavanshi silenced his critics with a stunning performance against the United Arab Emirates in the Under-19 Asia Cup. The 13-year-old batting sensation from Bihar, who recently created history by becoming the youngest player to be sold in the IPL auction, smashed an unbeaten 76 off just 46 balls, leading India to a comfortable 10-wicket victory.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi proves mettle, leads India to 10-wicket win over UAE
Suryavanshi's record-breaking IPL deal had thrust him into the limelight, subjecting him to increased scrutiny. However, he responded to the pressure with a mature and dominant innings, showcasing his immense talent and potential. Despite a disappointing start to the Under-19 Asia Cup, where he scored just 1 and 23 in the first two matches, Suryavanshi was determined to prove his critics wrong. In the third match against the UAE, he launched a blistering attack, smashing a six off the very first ball he faced.
He continued his aggressive approach, hitting four sixes in his first ten balls and racing to 28 runs in just 11 deliveries. His explosive batting display showcased his immense talent and potential, silencing his doubters. Inspired by Suryavanshi's aggressive batting, Ayush Mhatre also shifted gears, accelerating his scoring rate after a slow start. The duo formed a formidable partnership, reaching their respective half-centuries and adding 100 runs for the first wicket in just 70 balls.
The UAE bowlers were helpless as Suryavanshi and Mhatre continued to dominate, hitting boundaries at will. Suryavanshi finished the match in style with a massive six, while Mhatre remained unbeaten on 67. Suryavanshi's innings was studded with three fours and six sixes, while Mhatre hit four fours and four sixes.
Bowling first India restricted the UAE to a modest total of 137 runs in 44 overs. Yudhajit Guha led the Indian bowling attack, claiming three wickets for 15 runs. Chetan Sharma and Hardik Raj also contributed with two wickets each. Muhammad Rayan was the top scorer for UAE with 48-ball 35.
Notably, with this convincing victory, India topped Group A with four points from three matches. They will now face Sri Lanka in the semi-finals on December 6 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. All eyes will be on Pakistan versus Japan clash which will determine India's opponent in the U-19 Asia Cup 2024' seminal
