Musheer Century and Saumy Pandey Spin Devastate New Zealand, Securing India’s Third Consecutive 200-Plus Run Win

In a dominating display, India’s U-19 cricket team secured a resounding 214-run victory over New Zealand in the first game of the Super Sixes round of the U-19 World Cup. Musheer Khan, delivering a stellar performance, smashed his second century in three innings and contributed with the ball, finishing with figures of 2 for 10 off his 3.1 overs.

Sent in to bat, India posted a formidable total of 295 for 8 in their 50 overs, led by Musheer’s outstanding 131 and Adarsh Singh’s half-century. New Zealand struggled in response, succumbing to Raj Limbani and Saumy Pandey’s brilliant bowling, getting bowled out for just 81. This marked New Zealand’s third-lowest score in the history of the U-19 World Cup.

Musheer, who had previously scored 118 and 73 in the tournament, continued his rich form, starting with a ramp shot over the keeper’s head and a stylish cover drive. Adarsh Singh complemented the innings with sparkling drives, and together they built a crucial 77-run partnership.

Despite New Zealand’s attempts to tighten the game with spin bowling, Musheer persisted, reaching his century with a single to deep midwicket. The 18-year-old became only the second Indian in the U-19 World Cup history to score multiple centuries in a single edition, a feat achieved previously by Shikhar Dhawan in 2004.

New Zealand’s chase was dismantled by Raj Limbani’s inswinging brilliance, who dismissed key batters early on. Saumy Pandey’s left-arm spin further compounded New Zealand’s woes, finishing with remarkable figures of 4 for 19. The opposition struggled to pick the Indian bowlers, leading to a comprehensive victory for the Indian U-19 team.

With this win, India not only secured their third successive 200-plus run victory in the tournament but also moved a step closer to booking a spot in the semi-finals. Musheer Khan’s all-round brilliance played a pivotal role in India’s convincing triumph over New Zealand.