Vaibhav Sooryavanshi maintained his remarkable form with a brilliant century, and Aaron George also hit triple digits as India U-19 defeated South Africa by 233 runs in the third and last youth ODI, securing a dominant 3-0 series victory on Wednesday. Sooryavanshi’s excellence secured him the Player of the Match and Player of the Series honors.
Why Was Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Named Player of the Series? A 127-Run Masterclass Explained
Sent in to bat, captain Sooryavanshi, who had dominated with a rapid 24-ball 68 in the last match, was again in a destructive frame of mind. The 14-year-old hailing from Bihar scored 127 runs off only 74 balls, blasting ten sixes and nine fours, demonstrating his fearless batting.
Batting partner Aaron George supported him excellently, scoring 118 runs from 106 balls. The pair achieved an impressive 227-run partnership that established the foundation for India’s formidable total of 393 for 7.
South Africa’s pursuit never gained momentum, as they were dismissed for 160 in 35 overs. Ntando Soni (3/61) and Jason Rowles (2/59) were the standout bowlers for India at Willowmoore Park, combining to take five wickets.
Pursuing a high target, South Africa faltered early, losing three wickets for only 15 runs in the fourth over.
Kishan Singh caused chaos at the top by getting rid of Jorich Van Schalkwyk (1), Adnaan Lagadien (9), and Lethabo Phahlamohlaka (0). The 19-year-old Singh, who previously claimed four wickets in the second ODI, stood out as the top bowler once more.
A short resistance from Daniel Bosman (40) and Jason Rowles (19) was not enough, as South Africa fell to 99 for six in the 23rd over. A late effort from Paul James (41) and Corne Botha (36 not out) merely postponed the unavoidable.
Sooryavanshi’s third century in Youth ODIs solidified his growing reputation. In 18 games, he has made 973 runs with an average of 54.05 and a strike rate of 164.08, featuring three hundreds and four fifties. India had previously clinched the series with a 25-run DLS victory in the first match and an eight-wicket win in the second ODI, making this final success an appropriate end to a commanding campaign.