Bulawayo, Jan 15 (UNI) Henil Patel stole the show as India U19 cruised to a six-wicket victory over United States of America U19 in the opening Group A match of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 at Queens Sports Club. The match was rain-affected, with India chasing a revised DLS target of 96 in 37 overs.
Electing to bowl first, India relied on Henil’s exceptional bowling to put the USA under early pressure. The right-arm pacer delivered a stunning performance, claiming 5 wickets for just 16 runs in 7 overs, striking at crucial intervals to dismantle the America top and middle order.
He removed opener Amrinder Gill, Arjun Mahesh, Utkarsh Srivastava, Sabrish Prasad, and Rishabh Shimpi, reducing the USA to 107 all out in 35.2 overs.
RS Ambrish, Deepesh Devendran, Khilan Patel, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi supported with one wicket each, but it was Henil’s incisive spells that set the tone. Nitish Sudini’s 36 was the only notable resistance in a batting lineup struggling against disciplined Indian bowling.
Chasing the revised target, India U19 reached 99 for 4 in 17.2 overs, led by Abhigyan Kundu’s unbeaten 42. Henil’s early breakthroughs had already put India in a commanding position, allowing the batsmen to chase the target without panic. Captain Ayush Mhatre contributed 19, while Vihaan Malhotra added 18, ensuring a smooth finish.
Henil’s performance marked a statement on the global stage, demonstrating his potential as a strike bowler for India’s next generation. His 5-wicket haul not only won India the match but also set the tone for Group A, sending a strong message to competitors.
Umpires Russell Warren and Zahid Bassarath officiated, with Lubabalo Gcuma as third umpire and Dean Cosker as match referee.
