Thu Sep 26 15:03:27 UTC 2024: ## India U-19 Dominate Australia, Complete 3-0 Series Sweep
**Sydney, Australia:** The Indian Under-19 cricket team showcased their dominance on Thursday, defeating Australia by seven runs in a thrilling third youth ODI. This victory marks a clean sweep for the Indian youngsters, who had previously won the first two matches by seven and nine wickets respectively.
India, batting first, amassed a formidable total of 324 for 8, thanks to half-centuries from opener Rudra Patel (77) and skipper Mohamed Amaan (71). Significant contributions from lower-order batsmen Hardik Raj (30) and Chetan Sharma (18) propelled the team to a commanding position.
In response, Australia seemed to be cruising towards victory with twin centuries from skipper Oliver Peake (111) and Steven Hogan (104). The pair shared a 180-run partnership for the third wicket, leaving the Australian team at 241 for 2 in the 41st over.
However, the tide turned dramatically in the final overs. India’s spin duo of Hardik (3/55) and Kiran Chormale (2/59) proved to be the difference-makers. They removed the two well-set Australian batsmen and wicketkeeper Alex Lee Young in quick succession, causing a mini-collapse.
The Australian chase faltered as India choked the run-flow in the latter stages. Despite a valiant effort from Aidan O’ Connor (35), Bengal fast bowler Yudhajit Guha (2/40) held his nerve in the final over to secure the victory for India.
With this emphatic win, the Indian U-19 team has cemented their dominance over the Australian youngsters, sending a strong message ahead of upcoming international tournaments.
First Piper 