Vaibhav Suryavanshi stunned everyone in the U19 Asia Cup tournament opener with a magnificent performance of controlled aggression, blasting an astonishing 171 off only 95 deliveries to fundamentally redefine India U19’s innings against UAE U19 in Dubai. Suryavanshi, who opened the innings with Ayush Mhatre, not only set the tempo but also changed the tone of the game, propelling India to complete control.
He achieved his century in just 56 balls before accelerating even further, displaying a unique combination of clean ball-striking, poise, and match knowledge. His massive 171 included nine fours and an incredible 14 sixes, but what really stood out was the logic behind his acceleration. He skilfully timed his innings, starting with calm stroke play and then unleashing continuous power hitting once he was settled.
Suryavanshi displayed discipline on the powerplay, respecting the conditions just enough to minimise unnecessary danger while keeping the scoring rate consistent. As the innings continued, he seamlessly shifted from steady buildup to calculated aggression, regularly pounding anything short or within his hitting arc.
The innings-defining moment came through a commanding 212-run partnership with Aaron George for the second wicket. While George anchored the innings with a composed 69 off 73 balls, Suryavanshi assumed the role of the aggressor, dismantling both seamers and spinners with equal authority. UAE bowlers Ali Asgar Shums and Shalom D’Souza bore the brunt of his onslaught, with their figures soaring as he continued clearing the boundary with startling ease.
Even after George fell with the score at 220/2, Suryavanshi showed no signs of slowing down.
He continued to attack fearlessly, ensuring India maintained the imposing scoring rate they had established. His dismissal at 265/3 in the 33rd over did little to halt India’s momentum, as the team powered ahead to post a colossal 433/6 in 50 overs. Vihaan Malhotra also contributed significantly with a brisk 69 off 55 balls.
For UAE U19, Yug Jai Sharma (2/75) and Uddish Suri (2/77) managed to pick up wickets, but the rest of the bowling unit was brutally punished as India asserted complete dominance.
India
