How Did Kundu and Trivedi Lead India U19 to Victory Over Australia U19?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kundu and Trivedi's partnership was crucial for the win.
- India's bowling attack kept Australia in check.
- Youth talent on display with promising performances.
- Match set the tone for the series ahead.
- Strong start for India in the Youth ODI series.
Brisbane, Sep 21 (NationPress) Unbeaten half-centuries from Abhigyan Kundu and Vedant Trivedi propelled India U19 to a decisive seven-wicket victory against Australia U19 in the inaugural Youth ODI at the Ian Healy Oval on Sunday.
Wicketkeeper-batter Kundu, who earned the Player of the Match accolade, scored a stylish 87 from 74 balls, featuring five sixes and eight fours. Meanwhile, Trivedi contributed a solid 61 off 69 balls, including eight boundaries. Their outstanding 152-run partnership for the fourth wicket was instrumental in India successfully chasing a target of 226 with 117 balls remaining, recovering from an early stumble.
India’s innings started on a high note as 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi blasted a rapid 38 from just 22 deliveries, including seven fours. His aggressive batting overshadowed captain Ayush Mhatre’s modest six runs during a 50-run opening partnership, before both fell in quick succession to Hayden Schiller and Charles Lachmund.
Vihaan Malhotra soon followed, dismissed for nine, leaving India at 75/3 in the 10th over. However, Trivedi and Kundu steadied the innings with skill and composure, ensuring Australia’s chances of a comeback were quickly extinguished as they guided India to victory.
Earlier, opting to bat, Australia could only manage 225/9, courtesy of India’s disciplined bowling. Henil Patel led the charge with figures of 3-38, supported by Kanishk Chouhan (2-39), Kishan Kumar (2-59), and RS Ambrish (1-50).
The only notable performance from Australia came from John James, who countered with an unbeaten 77 off 68 balls, hitting six fours and a six after Australia stumbled to 35/4 and later 107/6. Tom Hogan (41) and Steven Hogan (39) struggled to maintain a brisk scoring rate.
With this victory, India leads the Youth ODI series 1-0, with the next match set to take place at the same venue on Wednesday.
Brief scores:
Australia 225/9 in 50 overs (John James 77 not out, Tom Hogan 41; Henil Patel 3-38, Kanishk Chouhan 2-39) lost to India 227/3 in 30.3 overs (Abhigyan Kundu 87 not out, Vedant Trivedi 61 not out; Charles Lachmund 2-46, Hayden Schiller 1-59) by seven wickets.