Dhaka, Dec 08 (V7N) –Bangladesh Under-19 cricket team showcased their dominance by defeating India by 59 runs to retain the Asia Cup title at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Despite setting a modest target of 199, the Tigers displayed a stellar bowling performance to secure their second consecutive championship in the tournament.

Bangladesh’s Innings: Battling Through Challenges

Electing to bat first, Bangladesh struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Openers Zawad Abrar (20) and Kalam Siddiki (1) departed early, leaving the team at 41/2. Captain Azizul Hakim Tamim also fell cheaply for 16, further deepening the troubles at 66/3.

Middle-order batters Rizan Hossain (47 off 65) and Shihab James (40 off 67) anchored the innings with a crucial 62-run partnership. Contributions from Farid Hasan (39 off 49) and Al Fahad pushed the total to 198 before the innings ended in 49.1 overs.

Indian bowlers Yudhajit Guha, Chetan Sharma, and Hardik Raj were instrumental, each claiming two wickets to restrict Bangladesh.

India’s Collapse in the Chase

Chasing a manageable target, India faltered from the start. Young prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who made headlines for his IPL deal, was dismissed for just 9 by Maruf Mridha, leaving India at 24/2. Captain Mohamed Amaan (26 off 65) and Conn Karthia (21 off 43) tried to stabilize the innings, but Bangladesh’s bowlers kept the pressure high.

Iqbal Hossain Emon led the charge with figures of 3/24, dismantling India’s middle order. Azizul Hakim Tamim redeemed his batting failure with an exceptional bowling performance, taking 3/8. India’s tail collapsed quickly, and they were bowled out for 139 runs in just 35.2 overs.

Key Performers

Bangladesh:

Iqbal Hossain Emon: 3/24

Azizul Hakim Tamim: 3/8

Rizan Hossain: 47

Shihab James: 40

India:

Mohamed Amaan: 26

Conn Karthia: 21

Hardik Raj: 24

Yudhajit Guha and Hardik Raj: 2 wickets each

Significance of the Win

This victory is monumental as it marks the first time India has lost in nine Asia Cup finals. Bangladesh's triumphs in 2023 and 2024 establish them as a rising powerhouse in youth cricket.

Azizul Hakim’s leadership and pivotal contributions throughout the tournament, combined with a strong collective effort, signal a bright future for Bangladesh cricket.

END/WSP/RH/AJ