India’s Under-19 cricket team capped off a dominant 3-0 series sweep against Australia with a thrilling seven-run victory in the third and final Youth ODI on Thursday.
Batting first, India posted a formidable total of 324 for 8, thanks to half-centuries from opener Rudra Patel (77 off 81) and skipper Mohamed Amaan (71 off 72). Hardik Raj (30 off 18) and Chetan Sharma (18 not out off 9) provided valuable contributions in the lower order.
Australia’s chase got off to a strong start, with skipper Oliver Peake (111) and Steven Hogan (104) putting on a 180-run partnership for the third wicket. However, India’s bowlers fought back in the death overs, with Hardik (3/55) and Kiran Chormale (2/59) removing the set batters and Alex Lee Young in quick succession.
Aidan O’Connor (35 off 20) tried to revive Australia’s hopes, but Bengal fast bowler Yudhajit Guha (2/40) held his nerve in the final over to secure the victory for India.
The Indian team’s success was built on their consistent batting performances throughout the series. Patel and Amaan led the way with their half-centuries, while Raj and Sharma provided crucial support in the lower order.
Australia’s batting also impressed, with Peake and Hogan scoring centuries in the third ODI. However, their inability to finish the chase in the final overs proved costly.
India’s bowlers also played a key role in the series sweep. Hardik and Chormale were particularly effective in the death overs, while Guha’s performance in the final over was crucial.
The victory marks a significant achievement for India’s Under-19 team, who have now won three consecutive Youth ODI series against Australia. It also bodes well for the future of Indian cricket, as these young players continue to develop and gain experience at the international level.
