The ICC Under-19 One Day International Cricket World Cup got underway yesterday, with three matches played on the opening day of the tournament.
In the opening match, India defeated the United States by 6 wickets under the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method. The match was played in Zimbabwe.
After winning the toss, India opted to field first. Batting first, the USA Under-19 team were bowled out for 107 runs in 35.2 overs, with Nitish Sudini top-scoring with 36 runs. For India, Henil Patel delivered an outstanding bowling performance, claiming 5 wickets.
Due to rain interruptions, India were set a revised target of 96 runs in 37 overs under the DLS method. The Indian batters reached the target comfortably, scoring 99 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 17.2 overs. Abhiyan Kundu led the chase with 42 runs, while Ritvik Apidi picked up two wickets for the USA.
The second match of the tournament, scheduled between Zimbabwe and Scotland, was abandoned due to rain without a ball being bowled.
The third match was played in Namibia, where the West Indies Under-19 team defeated Tanzania by 5 wickets. Batting first, Tanzania were bowled out for 122 runs in 34 overs, with Dylan Thaker scoring 26 runs. Vitel Laves starred with the ball for the West Indies, taking 3 wickets.
In reply, the West Indies Under-19 side chased down the target, scoring 124 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in just 21 overs. Thanes Francis top-scored with 52 runs, while Jewel Andrew contributed 44 runs, guiding their team to a comfortable victory.
