India U19 vs Zimbabwe U19: Blignaut, Chiwaula Bolster Chase After Rocky Start

In an exciting ICC Under-19 World Cup match, India faced Zimbabwe at Bulawayo’s Queen’s Sports Club on January 27. India U19, led by captain Ayush Mhatre, aimed to extend their winning streak after a successful group stage.

India U19’s Dominant Performance

India finished their group stage with a remarkable record, securing three consecutive victories. They began their campaign with a six-wicket win against the USA, dismissing them for only 107 runs. Following that, India managed a narrow 18-run victory over Bangladesh. In their final group match, they dominated New Zealand, winning by seven wickets after bowling them out for 135 runs.

Net Run Rate Highlights

India wrapped up the group stage with an impressive Net Run Rate (NRR) of +2.976. As they entered the Super Sixes, their NRR slightly adjusted to +2.751.

Zimbabwe’s Path to Super Six

On the other hand, Zimbabwe qualified for the Super Six stage, finishing third in Group C. They trailed England and Pakistan, who garnered six and four points, respectively. Despite having just one point from the group stage, Zimbabwe advanced due to a better NRR compared to Scotland.

Zimbabwe’s Group Stage Challenges

Zimbabwe faced significant challenges, including an eight-wicket defeat against Pakistan. They navigated their way to the Super Six with a slow chase that slightly hindered their Net Run Rate.

Team Changes and Lineups

For the Super Six match, India made a strategic change by replacing leg-spinner Mohaamd Enaan with left-arm pace bowler Udhav Mohan. The Indian lineup is as follows:

• Aaron George
• Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
• Ayush Mhatre (c)
• Vihaan Malhotra
• Abhigyan Kundu (wk)
• Vedant Trivedi
• Kanishk Chouhan
• RS Ambrish
• Khilan Patel
• Henil Patel
• Udhav Mohan

Zimbabwe’s squad includes:

• Nathaniel Hlabangana (wk)
• Dhruv Patel
• Kian Blignaut
• Webster Madhidhi
• Takudzwa Makoni
• Leeroy Chiwaula
• Simbarashe Mudzengerere (c)
• Brandon Senzere
• Michael Blignaut
• Tatenda Chimugoro
• Panashe Mazai

Looking Ahead

As the match unfolds, all eyes will be on key players like Kian Blignaut and Leeroy Chiwaula, who are crucial to Zimbabwe’s efforts against a formidable Indian side. With India’s recent performance, they will look to secure their fourth consecutive win in this crucial Super Six stage.