Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 25-Ball Fifty Before Malaysia Star Ends Blitz
Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed a rapid half-century before a stunning boundary catch ended his knock abruptly.
Fourteen-year-old Indian batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi continued his sensational form in the ACC Men's Under-19 Asia Cup with a blistering 26-ball half-century against Malaysia in India's final Group A match on December 16, 2025, at The Sevens Stadium. Opening the innings after Malaysia opted to field, Suryavanshi unleashed aggressive strokeplay, striking five fours and three sixes to race past fifty, showcasing the same fearless intent that defined his tournament.
The innings nearly ended on 49 when Suryavanshi collided mid-pitch with bowler Muhammad Akram while attempting a run, but a wayward throw allowed him to complete the milestone. On the very next delivery, however, he miscued a lofted drive down the ground, with strong winds holding the ball up just enough for long-off fielder Muhammad Nurhanif to sprint in, maintain balance inches from the boundary rope, and complete a spectacular catch.
Despite the dismissal, India's dominance persisted through a record-breaking partnership. Wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu smashed an unbeaten 209 off 125 balls—the first double century by an Indian in Youth ODIs—while Vedant Trivedi contributed 90 in a 209-run stand, propelling India to 408 for 7 in 50 overs.
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Malaysia were bundled out for 93 in response, with pacer Deepesh Devendran claiming 5 for 22, as India registered a commanding 315-run victory—the largest margin by runs in Youth ODI history—to finish atop Group A with three wins from three matches and secure a semifinal berth.
Suryavanshi's quickfire 50 followed his explosive 171 against UAE in the opener but came after a rare low score of 5 against Pakistan, reinforcing his reputation as one of cricket's most exciting young talents following his record-breaking domestic feats and high-profile IPL acquisition. India's comprehensive group-stage performance sets them up strongly for the knockout rounds, with the semifinals scheduled later in the week as they aim to defend their title in the prestigious continental tournament.
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