The final phase of preparation for the upcoming ICC U-19 World Cup kicks off this Saturday as the India U-19 and South Africa U-19 teams lock horns in the first Youth ODI. The match will be played in Benoni, setting the stage for a crucial bilateral series that serves as a vital tune-up for the global tournament.
India's Asia Cup Campaign and Captaincy Change
India enters this contest on the back of a runners-up finish at the recent U-19 Asia Cup. The young Indian squad put up a commendable performance throughout the tournament but fell short in the final against arch-rivals Pakistan. Despite missing out on the continental title, the team displayed promising talent with most players making significant contributions.
However, the Indian camp has been dealt a blow with the news that their regular captain, Ayush Mhatre, will miss the series due to injury. Stepping up to lead the side in his absence will be Vaibhav Suryavanshi. All eyes will be on the new skipper as he aims to galvanize his team against a strong South African outfit at home.
Where to Watch and Full Squad Details
Cricket fans in India and around the world can catch all the action live. The IND U19 vs SA U19 first ODI will be streamed live on Cricket South Africa's official YouTube channel. The live broadcast is scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM Indian Standard Time (IST) on Saturday.
Both teams have announced their squads for the series, featuring a mix of exciting prospects. The full list of players is as follows:
India U-19 Squad: Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Captain), Aaron George, Harvansh Pangalia, Vedant Trivedi, Abhigyan Kundu (Wicket-keeper), Kanishk Chouhan, RS Ambrish, Khilan Patel, Henil Patel, Deepesh Devendran, Kishan Kumar Singh, Mohamed Enaan, Rahul Kumar, Udhav Mohan, Yuvraj Gohil.
South Africa U-19 Squad: Jorich Van Schalkwyk, Adnaan Lagadien, Muhammed Bulbulia (Captain & Wicket-keeper), Jason Rowles, Armaan Manack, Paul James, Daniel Bosman, Bandile Mbatha, Ntando Soni, JJ Basson, Bayanda Majola, Corne Botha, Michael Kruiskamp, Lethabo Phahlamohlaka, Enathi Kitshini.
High Stakes in Benoni
This series holds immense importance for both sides as they fine-tune their combinations and strategies. For India, it's an opportunity to bounce back from the Asia Cup final defeat and build momentum under new leadership. For South Africa, playing at home provides the perfect platform to test their mettle against a traditional cricketing powerhouse.
Every performance will be scrutinized as players make their final push for selection and form ahead of the World Cup. The Benoni pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest, making the first ODI a must-watch encounter for followers of youth cricket.
