India off to fine start in Under-19 Asia Cup

FILE PHOTO: Akhil Herwadkar has been in fine nick in the tournament

World Champions India have got off to a fine start in the ongoing Under-19 Asia Cup as they brushed aside the United Arab Emirates(UAE) & Nepal in their first two games at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

On Saturday, December 28th, India notched up a mammoth 189-run victory against the UAE. Chasing India’s 320-4 in 50 overs, UAE were bowled out for 131 in the 41st over.

Deepak Hooda, the medium pacer, was India’s best bowler on display with figures of 4-21 off his 8.1 overs. Earlier in the day, Indian openers Ankush Bains & Akhil Herwadkar put on a 162-run opening stand before wicket-keeper Bains got out.

Herwadkar went on to complete his maiden U-19 century and ended up with 101. Sanju Samson played a sparkling knock of 65 in 47 balls laced with 8 boundaries & 2 sixes. Middle order bat Ricky Bhui also made a fine 50 smashing 5 boundaries & 2 hits over the ropes.

Sunday, December 29, saw India notch up a convincing 9-wicket win against Nepal. Batting first, Nepal made a paltry 136 getting bowled out in the 45th over.

Left-arm chinaman Kuldeep Yadav was the wrecker-in-chief taking 5-31 in his 10 overs. Kuldeep ran through the Nepal batting taking 5 of the top 6 batsmen’s scalps. In reply, India coasted to victory in 25.1 overs thanks once again to Akhil Herwadkar‘s 71 off 67 balls. India’s captain & star batsman Vijay Zol, who missed out in the first game, opened the batting with Herwadkar & made an unbeaten 61.

India & Pakistan have both qualified for the semi-finals and will take on each other on Tuesday (31st December) to decide who tops the group.