Anvay Dravid's 87 powers India U19 to 285 against Sri Lanka in Hambantota
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Wicketkeeper-batter Anvay Dravid, son of batting legend Rahul Dravid, struck a commanding 87 off 67 balls to anchor India Under-19 to 285 all out against Sri Lanka Under-19 in the second youth ODI at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Hambantota, on Monday, 6 July. The visitors' innings was built on a defining recovery after an early top-order collapse.
Early Collapse and the Recovery Partnership
Electing to bat, India U19 found themselves in deep trouble at 81 for 4 in the 19th over, with the top order folding against a disciplined Sri Lankan attack. What followed was a composed counter-attack as Anvay Dravid and Arjun Rajput came together to resurrect the innings. The two stitched a crucial 145-run fifth-wicket partnership that transformed a precarious position into a competitive total.
Anvay Dravid's Knock
The 17-year-old Anvay was the standout performer, hitting nine boundaries and a six at a strike-rate of 129.85. He reached his maiden Youth ODI half-century off just 47 deliveries and looked set for a century before being dismissed by left-arm pacer Gimhan Mendis, who finished as the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers with impressive figures of 5 for 41. Anvay's dismissal at 263 for 7 triggered a lower-order collapse, with India losing their final three wickets for just 22 runs to be bowled out for 285 in 47.2 overs.
Rajput's Supporting Role
Arjun Rajput provided vital support with a solid 76 off 81 balls before being run out by a sharp throw from Dimantha Mahavithana. His contribution was integral to India posting a defendable total after the top-order struggles.
Series Context and What's Next
India U19 currently lead the three-match series 1-0, having chased down a target of 321 runs for a thrilling four-wicket victory in the opening match at the same venue. Notably, Anvay captained Karnataka in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, amassing 220 runs, and is reportedly in strong contention for India's next Under-19 World Cup squad. His elder brother Samit Dravid was selected for the India U19 series against Australia but missed out due to a knee injury. The third and final match of the series will determine the series result.
Brief Scores: India U19: 285 all out in 47.2 overs (Anvay Dravid 87, Arjun Rajput 76; Gimhan Mendis 5/41) vs Sri Lanka U19.