India U-19 Clinches Series Victory in Thrilling Youth ODI Finale

India U-19 boys secured a seven-run victory against Australia in the final youth ODI, achieving a 3-0 series sweep. Opener Rudra Patel and skipper Mohamed Amaan contributed significantly to India's 324. Despite strong performances from Australia's Oliver Peake and Steven Hogan, key Indian bowlers turned the game around in the final overs.

India U-19 boys held their nerve in the final overs to secure a seven-run victory over Australia, completing a 3-0 series sweep in the high-scoring third youth ODI on Thursday. The Indian junior team had previously triumphed in the first and second youth ODIs by seven and nine wickets respectively.

Opting to bat first, India posted a formidable 324 for 8, with standout performances from opener Rudra Patel (77 off 81 balls) and skipper Mohamed Amaan (71 off 72 balls). Lower-order contributions from Hardik Raj (30 off 18 balls) and Chetan Sharma (18 not out off 9 balls) bolstered their total.

In response, Australia appeared well-positioned at 241 for 2 in the 41st over, thanks to twin centuries from skipper Oliver Peake (111) and Steven Hogan (104). However, brilliant death over bowling by Hardik Raj (3/55) and Kiran Chormale (2/59) precipitated a collapse, as Australia fell short at 317 for 7 in their 50 overs. Fast bowler Yudhajit Guha (2/40) played a crucial role in the last over, ensuring the Aussies couldn't clinch victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)