Bangladesh triumphed over India by 59 runs to clinch the ACC U19 2024 Trophy in an intense final on Sunday. Opting to field first, India delivered a disciplined bowling performance, restricting Bangladesh to a modest total of 198 in 49.1 overs. However, the Indian batting lineup faltered in their chase, resulting in a decisive victory for Bangladesh.
After India’s bowlers executed their plans to perfection, the target of 199 appeared achievable, especially considering their batting performances since the tournament-opening loss to Pakistan. Yet, in the high-pressure final, India suffered from recurring collapses, losing wickets in clusters and ultimately being bowled out for 139 in 35.2 overs.
The batting struggles began early, with star IPL prospect Vaibhav Suryavanshi falling for just 9 off 7 balls, followed by Ayush Mhatre departing for 1. Reduced to 24/2 inside five overs, India’s chase never gained momentum. Attempts to stabilize the innings by C Andre Siddarth (20 off 35 balls) were thwarted when Rizan Hossan dismissed him in the 12th over, marking a turning point in the game.
Bangladesh’s Iqbal Hossain Emon then dismantled India’s middle order, claiming three key wickets in quick succession. His victims included KP Karthikeya (21), Nikhil Kumar (0), and Harvansh Pangalia (6), leaving India reeling. Late resistance from Mohamed Amaan, who scored a gritty 26 off 65 balls, and Hardik Raj’s quickfire 24 off 21 deliveries, offered some hope but proved insufficient. Azizul Hakim sealed the win with a stellar 3/8 in 2.2 overs.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s batting was led by Rizan Hossain (47), Mohammad Shihab James (40), and Farid Hasan (39), whose contributions proved pivotal in a low-scoring encounter. For India, Yudhajit Guha impressed with figures of 2/29, supported by Chetan Sharma (2/48) and Hardik Raj (2/41).
With this victory, Bangladesh secured a historic U19 Asia Cup title, showcasing resilience and skill against a formidable Indian side.