Press Trust of India
Kolkata, Nov 21: Orissa’s Subham Nayak (1/25) picked up a wicket on his India under-19 debut as hosts India riding on Delhi’s wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant’s (87, 88b, 10×4, 2×6) defeated Afghanistan by 33 runs in a tri-series match, here Saturday.
India now have nine points from two games, having beaten Bangladesh in their opening game Friday. In that game they also got a bonus point.
Batting first, India were all out for 236 in 50 overs before bowling out Afghanistan for 203 in 47.3 overs. Left-arm pacer Khalil Ahmed (4/41) did the maximum damage for India and he was well-supported by spinner Pradipta Pramanik (2/34).
In a side with as many as eight changes to the one that beat Bangladesh handsomely, Rahul Dravid’s wards lived up to the head coach’s expectation as they again dominated the proceedings from the onset.
Electing to bat, India lost their first wicket in opener Washington Sundar (2) with only five on board. It was the stockily built Pant, who laid the foundation for victory in his two 50-plus partnerships with Amandeep Khare (24 30b, 2×4, 1×6) and captain Ricky Bhui (27, 47b, 3×4) from 47b, 3×4).
After Pant’s dismissal to a dubious decision Mahipal Lomror (43, 62b, 6×4) took India past the 225-run mark.
Pant, took the doubtful decision in his stride and said: “It seemed to be ‘not out’ as there was an edge but these things happen. We are happy with the win, everyone contributed for the team. It’s a happy unit under (Rahul) Dravid sir.”
Brief Scores: India 236 (Rishabh Pant 87, Mahipal Lomror 43; Rashid Khan 4/47) beat Afghanistan 203 (Rashid Arman 43, Khaleel Ahmed 4/41, Pradipta Pramanik 2/34) by 33 runs.
