Thu Jan 15 08:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: India U19 Clinches Victory Against USA in U19 World Cup Opener
The Story:
The Indian U19 cricket team commenced its campaign at the 2026 U19 World Cup with a convincing victory against the United States of America (USA). The match, held at the Queen’s Sports Club in Bulawayo, saw the USA batting first after losing the toss and being bundled out for just 107 runs in 35.2 overs. India, after a revised target of 96 runs in 37 overs due to rain, chased down the score comfortably, securing a crucial win in their opening Group A encounter. Henil Patel was the star performer for India, claiming a five-wicket haul.
Key Points:
- The match was played on January 15, 2026, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
- USA scored 107 runs in 35.2 overs after losing the toss.
- India was set a revised target of 96 runs in 37 overs.
- Henil Patel took 5 wickets for India.
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi was dismissed for 2 runs.
- Nitish Sudini top-scored for USA with 36 runs.
- India won the match and is in Group A along with New Zealand, USA and Bangladesh.
- This U19 World Cup is co-hosted by Namibia and Zimbabwe.
- India defeated USA by 201 runs in the 2024 U19 World Cup.
Key Takeaways:
- India starts the U19 World Cup on a positive note, displaying dominance over USA.
- Henil Patel’s impressive bowling performance was instrumental in restricting the USA’s score.
- India’s strong historical record against the USA in U19 cricket continues.
- The victory provides India with early momentum in Group A, setting the stage for their upcoming matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand.
- The performance highlights India’s ambition to win the U19 World Cup for the sixth time.
First Piper 