Published : 18 Jan 2026, 08:56 AM
Updated : 21 Aug 2026, 03:02 PM
Bangladesh looked in control, cruising at 106 for 2 in pursuit of a revised 165-run target in 29 overs, only to see their innings crumble in dramatic fashion in their Under-19 World Cup tie.
The collapse, sparked by Vihaan Malhotra’s incisive spin, turned confidence into chaos for Bangladesh at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Saturday.
Eight wickets fell for just 46 runs as India snatched an 18-run victory in a rain-affected thriller, riddled with rain interruptions, DLS recalculations, and tense finishes.
After rain shortened India’s innings to 49 overs, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi had already laid a solid foundation with 72 from 72 balls, supported by Abhigyan Kundu’s patient 80 off 112 deliveries.
Bangladesh seamer Al Fahad shone with 5 for 38, including the crucial scalp of Kundu, yet India’s total of 238 proved just enough. He became the eighth Bangladeshi bowler to bag a 5-for in the tournament.
The chase began smoothly: Bangladesh reached 90 for 2 in 17.2 overs, comfortably ahead on DLS. But rain reduced the contest to 29 overs, leaving them with 75 runs to get from 70 balls.
In a bid to protect wickets under fading light and looming clouds, Bangladesh’s approach backfired.
Offspinner Malhotra (4-14) triggered the collapse, dismantling a side that had dominated for most of the chase.
Captain Azizul Hakim, sidelined from the toss due to illness, made 51 off 72 balls, but his dismissal marked the turning point.
