U19 World Cup: Ayush Mhatre’s rapid fifty powers India past New Zealand; Super Six qualification sealed unbeaten
India’s U19 team stayed unbeaten in the group stage after a seven-wicket (DLS) win over New Zealand, led by captain Ayush Mhatre’s explosive half-century. With dominant bowling and a swift chase, India entered the Super Six with momentum and clear signs of depth across departments.
- Reporting desk
- Health India Network News Desk
- First published
India finish group stage unbeaten
India Under-19 continued their strong run at the ICC U19 World Cup with a seven-wicket win over New Zealand via the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method. The result ensured India ended the league phase unbeaten and progressed to the Super Six stage with confidence and momentum built across three group wins.
New Zealand were bowled out for 135 in 36.2 overs, setting up a revised chase for India after rain adjustments. India’s chase target was set at 130, and the pursuit was completed in just 13.3 overs—an emphatic finish that underlined their intent and batting firepower.
Mhatre’s blitz shifts the match
Captain Ayush Mhatre provided the defining moment of the match with a commanding 53 off 27 balls, including a quickfire fifty that came in only 24 deliveries. After a slight reshuffle in the batting order, Mhatre entered at No. 3 and accelerated sharply, helping turn the chase into a sprint and leaving New Zealand with little room to build pressure.
Support also came through a brisk contribution from Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who struck 40 off 23 balls. Together, the top-order approach made the required rate irrelevant, allowing the middle order to calmly complete the final steps once the game was largely decided.
Why this win is significant
- India’s bowlers set up the match by restricting New Zealand to a modest total
- The chase showcased India’s ability to accelerate under DLS pressure
- Mhatre’s return to form strengthens leadership and top-order stability
- An unbeaten group stage improves confidence heading into Super Six
As the tournament moves into the Super Six, India’s challenge will be to maintain discipline with the ball while ensuring the batting aggression is calibrated for stronger attacks and higher-pressure run-chases.