Punjab Newsline,Sports:
India enter Super Six with full points after convincing win over New Zealand, skipper’s return to form boosts confidence
India’s impressive run in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup continued as captain Ayush Mhatre expressed strong confidence in his team’s growing maturity and ability to adapt to different match situations. The five-time champions extended their unbeaten streak with a commanding seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in a rain-affected group-stage encounter, ensuring they carried maximum points into the Super Six stage.
Speaking after the win, Mhatre praised the attitude and character shown by the young Indian side throughout the tournament. He acknowledged that the match against New Zealand was not easy, especially with frequent rain interruptions disturbing the flow of the game. However, he credited the players for sticking to the game plan and delivering disciplined bowling performances under challenging conditions.
According to the India skipper, the team has displayed remarkable composure despite their young age. He said the boys are mature enough to understand match situations and rely on their basics, which has been key to their consistent performances. Mhatre highlighted that the players have experienced similar scenarios before, and that exposure has helped them make smart decisions on the field.
India now face tougher challenges in the Super Six stage, where they will take on co-hosts Zimbabwe on January 27 and arch-rivals Pakistan on February 1. These matches are expected to test the team’s temperament and adaptability, but the Indian camp remains confident.
A major positive for India ahead of the crucial phase is the return to form of captain Ayush Mhatre himself. The right-handed batter top-scored with a composed 53 while chasing a modest target of 130 against New Zealand. His innings provided stability after a solid start by opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who struck a fluent 40 at the top of the order.
The chase was comfortably guided by Mhatre, along with useful contributions from Vihaan Malhotra and Vedant Trivedi, as India reached the target with authority and seven wickets in hand. The performance underlined India’s depth and balance as a unit.
For Mhatre, the half-century was his first significant contribution with the bat in the tournament, following modest scores of 19 and six against the USA and Bangladesh. Reflecting on his innings, he said his approach was simple—watch the ball closely and play according to its merit. With confidence high and form returning at the right time, India look well-prepared for the tougher tests ahead in the U19 World Cup.