India took a 2-1 lead in the U19 Youth ODI series against England, thanks to a breathtaking knock from Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose whirlwind 86 off just 31 balls lit up the third ODI in style. In a rain-affected clash, Suryavanshi’s innings proved decisive in India’s thrilling four-wicket victory, chasing a revised target of 269 in just 35 overs.

Starting batting with open intent, Suryavanshi went on a shearing rampage against the English bowlers, hitting nine record-breaking sixes – the record for the most Indian sixes in U19 ODI history, beating Mandeep Singh’s eight. In addition to the sixes, he hit six boundaries, taking India to 100 in merely eight overs. When he was eventually caught out by Alexander Wade, India had already crossed 111 runs in an opening onslaught for the ages.

This innings proved all the more pleasing to Suryavanshi, who had fallen short of his half-centuries in the last two matches. He particularly delighted in Sebastian Morgan, hitting two sixes in the third over and then contributing another two sixes and a four in Morgan’s next. James Minto was no better, giving away 23 runs in one over as Suryavanshi ran riot through England’s bowling.

But his removal precipitated a mini-collapse, and India’s score slipped to 199/6 by the 24th over. Just when the match seemed to be getting away, Kanishk Chouhan came into his own. The all-rounder, who had previously taken three wickets, played a composed, unbeaten 43 under pressure. He compiled a 75-run partnership with RS Ambrish that proved the turning point, leading India to a win with 33 balls to spare.

Earlier in the day, England compiled a strong 268/6 after a slow start owing to a wet outfield. Captain Thomas Rew played a magnificent hand, hitting an unbeaten 76 from 44 balls to consolidate the innings. Opener Ben Dawkins provided the hosts with a good start with a classy 62, putting on a 78-run opening stand with Isaac Mohammed (41). Ben Mayes also chipped in with a useful 31, allowing England to set a fighting total.

While England had their moments, it was Suryavanshi’s record-breaking blitz and Chouhan’s finishing act that ultimately stole the show, underlining India’s depth and promise in the youth ranks. Suryavanshi, who first grabbed attention during his stint with the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, has now firmly stamped his authority at the international youth level.