Sahil Parakh shines as India U19 clinches dominant ODI series win over Australia

India Under-19 secured a dominant nine-wicket win over Australia in the second Youth ODI on Monday, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Opener Sahil Parakh's aggressive unbeaten century led the charge as India comfortably chased down a target of 177 in just 22 overs. The series win comes after India had defeated Australia by seven wickets in the first match.

Parakh’s unbeaten hundred steers India to victory

Sahil Parakh, a 19-year-old from Mumbai, delivered an outstanding performance with the bat, scoring 109 not out off just 75 balls, including 14 fours and 5 sixes. His explosive innings helped India race to the target with ease after the early loss of Rudra Patel (10). Parakh formed a formidable partnership with Abhigyan Kundu, who contributed 53 not out from 50 balls, hitting 9 boundaries. Together, they stitched a 153-run stand that ensured India’s comfortable victory, finishing the chase in 22 overs.

Earlier, Australia had set a modest target of 177 after being bowled out for 176 in 49.3 overs. Parakh’s ton was the highlight of the match, securing India a series win with one match still to be played.

India’s bowling unit put in a solid performance to limit Australia to a below-par total. Karnataka medium pacer Samarth Nagaraj (2/34), Kerala leg-spinner Mohammed Enaan (2/30), and off-spinner Kiran Chormale (2/29) were instrumental, each taking two wickets. Their disciplined bowling effort prevented Australia’s batters from building any significant partnerships.

Australia’s middle-order batter Addison Sheriff top-scored with 39 off 61 balls, while Christian Howe added 28. However, several other Australian batters got starts but could not convert, with India’s bowlers striking regularly to dismiss them for 176.

Inconsequential final ODI and upcoming Tests

With the series already sealed, the third and final ODI becomes a formality, set to be played on Thursday. Following the conclusion of the ODI series, both teams will head to Chennai for two unofficial Tests, starting on September 30.

See Also: Inauguration date of Bengaluru's new NCA facility date revealed

Brief Scores:

Australia U19: 176 all out in 49.3 overs (Addison Sheriff 39, Christian Howe 28; Samarth Nagaraj 2/34, Mohammed Enaan 2/30, Kiran Chormale 2/29).

India U19: 177/1 in 22 overs (Sahil Parakh 109 not out, Abhigyan Kundu 53 not out).

India won by 9 wickets.