U19 WC LIVE: Spotlight on Vaibhav Suryavanshi as India aim to continue winning run

India's Dominant Run Continues in U19 World Cup

In the bustling cricket grounds of Bulawayo, India's U19 squad is making waves at the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men's World Cup. Fresh off back-to-back victories, the young guns from India faced New Zealand in a rain-interrupted Group B clash that had fans on the edge of their seats. Captain Ayush Mhatre's decision to bowl first after winning the toss proved masterful, as the Indian bowlers dismantled the Kiwi batting lineup. New Zealand managed just 135 all out in 36.2 overs, struggling on a pitch that offered early assistance to the pacers and spinners. This win marks India's third straight triumph, propelling them to the top of the group standings and into the Super Six stage with momentum.

The match, reduced to 37 overs per side due to showers, showcased India's depth in all departments. Openers for New Zealand faltered badly, with Aryan Mann scraping 3 off 21 balls and Hugo Boage 4 off 3. Lower down, Marco William Alpe's 29 and Callum Samson's 37 provided some resistance, but it wasn't enough against India's disciplined attack. The Boys in Blue's fielding was sharp, turning pressure into wickets at regular intervals. For a team aiming to extend their unbeaten streak, this performance was a statement of intent ahead of tougher challenges.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The Prodigy Stealing the Show

At the heart of the excitement is 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a name that's already echoing through cricket circles. Born in 2011, this Bihar lad has shattered records before even turning 15. He holds the mark for the fastest U19 Test century by an Indian, smashing 104 off 58 balls on debut against Australia. In domestic cricket, he's the youngest to play T20 and List A formats, with a blistering 190 off 84 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last year, eclipsing even AB de Villiers' fastest 150. In this tournament, Suryavanshi's form has been electric. Against Bangladesh, he anchored with 72 off 67 balls in a rain-hit chase, helping India win by 18 runs via DLS. His maturity belies his age, blending patience with explosive strokeplay.

During the New Zealand chase, Suryavanshi lit up the innings with back-to-back sixes off Callum Samson, racing to 40 before holing out. Boundaries flowed effortlessly – a crisp four off Flynn Morey towards deep mid-wicket highlighted his timing. Though he fell at 87/2 in 8.1 overs, his knock set the tone for Ayush Mhatre's unbeaten 53, steering India home by seven wickets in just 13.3 overs. Suryavanshi's ability to dominate spin and pace has drawn comparisons to India's senior stars, positioning him as a future cornerstone.

Key Partnerships and Captain's Knock Seal the Deal

Ayush Mhatre, the skipper, emerged as the hero with a composed 53, forming a vital stand with Suryavanshi. Earlier opener Aaron George fell early after a six, but Mhatre's aggression steadied the ship. This seven-wicket romp via DLS method underscores India's adaptability in curtailed games – they also chased down USA earlier in the tournament. The bowlers' stranglehold ensured a modest target, allowing the batters freedom to attack.

"Vaibhav showed incredible patience and professionalism under pressure; his knock against Bangladesh was crucial, and today he proved why he's special. The team's belief is sky-high as we head into Super Six," Mhatre said post-match.

India's campaign has been flawless so far: a six-wicket DLS win over USA, 18 runs against Bangladesh, and now this against New Zealand. Suryavanshi's emergence adds thrill, while Mhatre's leadership provides balance. As Super Six looms, eyes are on how these youngsters handle escalated competition. The win not only boosts net run rate but cements their group dominance, setting up an eagerly awaited knockout push.

Wrapping up, India's U19 team has flexed its muscles with a third consecutive win over New Zealand, driven by Vaibhav Suryavanshi's flair and Ayush Mhatre's solidity. Topping Group B unbeaten, they're primed for Super Six glory in Bulawayo.