The stage is set for an electrifying U19 Asia Cup Final as India U19 takes on Bangladesh U19 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 10:30 AM IST. Both teams enter the final with impressive performances, finishing as runners-up in their respective groups during the league stage and dominating their semifinal matches.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the high-stakes clash.
Table of content
Match Details and Live Streaming
Details | Information |
---|---|
Date & Time | December 8, 2024, 10:30 AM (IST) |
Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
Broadcast & Streaming | Sony Sports Network & SonyLIV |
India U19 Team Preview
India U19 bounced back strongly after their opening loss to Pakistan, securing dominant wins against Japan and UAE to qualify for the semifinals. In the knockout stage, they outclassed Sri Lanka U19 by seven wickets, chasing a modest target with 170 balls to spare.
Key Performers:
- Ayush Mhatre: The top-order batter has been in scintillating form, amassing 175 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 143.44.
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The 13-year-old sensation has scored over 150 runs in the tournament.
- Chetan Sharma: India’s leading bowler with 7 wickets in just three matches, excelling in crucial moments.
Bangladesh U19 Team Preview
Bangladesh U19, led by Md Azizul Hakim Tamin, had a similar journey, finishing second in Group B. They stunned Pakistan U19 in the semifinals with a dominant seven-wicket win, showcasing their all-round brilliance.
Key Performers:
- Azizul Hakim: The skipper has been a rock for his team, scoring 224 runs in four innings at a remarkable average of 112.00.
- Al Fahad and Iqbal Hossain Emon: Both pacers have claimed 10 wickets each, leading the tournament charts.
Pitch Report: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The pitch at Dubai has evolved over the course of the tournament. Early on, it favored batters, but as the tournament progressed, bowlers—both pacers and spinners—found significant assistance.
- Average First Innings Score: 222
- Chasing Record: Teams batting first have won five of the seven matches played here.
- Expectations: The surface is likely to offer early movement for seamers, while spinners could play a key role in the middle overs. Winning the toss and batting first could be advantageous in the final.
Key Stats and Players to Watch
Player | Stats |
---|---|
Ayush Mhatre | 175 runs, Avg: 58.33, SR: 143.44 |
Azizul Hakim | 224 runs, Avg: 112.00, SR: 84.52 |
Chetan Sharma | 7 wickets, Avg: 10.71, SR: 20.57 |
Al Fahad | 10 wickets, Avg: 13.50, SR: 20.90 |
Probable XIs
India U19:
Ayush Mhatre, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Andre Siddarth C, Mohamed Amaan (c), KP Karthikeya, Nikhil Kumar, Harvansh Singh (wk), Kiran Chormale, Hardik Raj, Chetan Sharma, Yudhajit Guha.
Bangladesh U19:
Zawad Abrar, Kalam Siddiki Aleen, Md Azizul Hakim Tamin (c), Mohammad Shihab James, Md Rizan Hossan, Md Farid Hasan Faysal (wk), Debasish Sarkar Deba, Md Samiun Basir Ratul, Maruf Mridha, Al Fahad, Iqbal Hossain Emon.
Winner Prediction
India U19 enters the final as slight favorites, thanks to their strong semifinal performance and the firepower of players like Ayush Mhatre and Chetan Sharma. However, Bangladesh U19’s balanced squad and stellar form in both batting and bowling make them serious contenders. Expect a thrilling encounter as two highly competitive sides battle for the ultimate prize.
Who will lift the trophy? Tune in on December 8 to find out!