U-19 Asia Cup: Bangladesh defends title with dominant bowling display, beats India by 59 runs

Bangladesh showcased a spirited bowling performance to defend their ACC Under-19 Asia Cup title with a commanding 59-run victory over India in Dubai on Sunday. The Indian team, chasing 200 for victory, crumbled under pressure as Bangladesh’s bowlers outclassed their opponents to secure back-to-back championships.

Despite restricting Bangladesh to a modest total of 199, India’s chase began poorly. Openers Ayush Mhatre (1) and Vaibhav Suryavanshi (9) were dismissed within the first five overs, setting the tone for a difficult run chase. The middle order offered little stability as Andre Siddarth and KP Karthikeya briefly steadied the innings with a 22-run partnership before Rizan Hossan dismantled the Indian lineup with his precise pace bowling.

Iqbal Hossain Emon further compounded India’s troubles with a decisive 21st over, removing Karthikeya (21) and Nikhil Kumar (0) to leave India reeling at 73/5. Skipper Mohamed Amaan fought valiantly, holding his ground while wickets tumbled at the other end. However, Azizul Hakim Tamim’s dismissal of Amaan sealed India’s fate, reducing them to 115/8. The tail offered minimal resistance, and India was bundled out for 139.

Earlier, Bangladesh had a shaky start after being sent in to bat, losing both openers with just 41 runs on the board. Mohammad Shihab James and Rizan Hossan steadied the innings with a crucial 62-run partnership. Farid Hasan Faysal added 39 runs in the middle order, helping Bangladesh post a competitive total of 199 despite a strong bowling performance from India.

The defeat added to a disappointing day for Indian cricket fans, coming hours after the senior team suffered a 10-wicket loss to Australia in the Adelaide pink-ball Test.