India Secures Back-to-Back U19 World Cup Wins Beating Bangladesh by 18 Runs

In a rain-interrupted thriller at the ICC Under-19 World Cup, India clinched their second consecutive victory, defeating Bangladesh by 18 runs in a tense Super Over finish. The match, held in Bloemfontein, South Africa, showcased the young Indian brigade’s resilience amid challenging weather conditions. India posted a competitive 185/7 in their 37 overs after Bangladesh elected to field first. Openers Ayush Mhatre and Bhardwaj anchored the innings with a solid 67-run partnership before the spinners struck back. Captain Saumy Kumar Pandey played a crucial knock of 45, guiding the team past the 180-mark despite regular breakthroughs from Bangladesh’s bowlers. Rain forced multiple stoppages, reducing the game to 37 overs per side. Bangladesh’s chase began steadily with openers Mohammad Omair and Adil Bin Azhar adding 52 runs. However, India’s bowlers, led by pacers Naman Tiwari and Karlekar, triggered a collapse. Tiwari’s fiery spell of 4/38 dismantled the top order, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 110/7. A late fightback from tailenders Tahsin Rahman and Maruf Mridha brought them close, but India defended 168 in the adjusted target. The match went down to the wire, culminating in a Super Over where Pandey and Tiwari restricted Bangladesh to 9 runs, while Mhatre smashed an unbeaten 11 to seal the win.