Wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu emerged as the star of the match with a phenomenal innings. Coming in during the 11th over after Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s wicket, he remained unbeaten till the end. Kundu scored an extraordinary 209 runs off just 125 balls, including 17 boundaries and 9 sixes.
His knock was not only explosive but historic, surpassing Ambati Rayudu’s previous record of 177 runs. This innings now stands as the highest individual score by an Indian in U19 ODI cricket. Moreover, India’s 315-run win is their second-biggest victory margin in Youth ODIs, following a 326-run win over Uganda in 2022.
India’s Dominant Batting Display
Beyond Kundu, India’s middle order also contributed significantly to the massive total. Vedant Trivedi added a valuable 90 runs, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi scored a rapid 50 off 26 balls. Despite early losses of openers Ayush Mhatre and Vihaan Malhotra, India’s batting showed resilience and firepower.
The team posted a commanding total of 408/7 in 50 overs, leaving Malaysia with an almost impossible chase. Every batsman played a key role in building a score that highlighted India’s depth and talent.
Malaysia’s Struggle Against India
Malaysia’s bowlers tried to contain India but could not withstand the batting onslaught. Muhammad Akram was the standout for Malaysia, taking five wickets for 89 runs. His scalps included Suryavanshi, Vihaan Malhotra, and Harvansh Pangalia, proving individual brilliance can shine even in defeat.
Chasing 409, Malaysia’s batting lineup collapsed under pressure. The team managed only 93 runs in 32.1 overs before losing all wickets. Hamzah Panggi top-scored with 35, but his effort could not prevent a comprehensive defeat.
India’s Bowling Excellence
India’s bowlers complemented the batting performance with disciplined and effective spells. Deepesh Devendran impressed by consistently restricting the opposition and applying pressure. The collective bowling effort ensured Malaysia never had a realistic chance of recovery.
India’s balanced performance in both batting and bowling underscored their dominance in the tournament. The victory reinforced their credentials as favorites for the U19 Asia Cup title.
