Daijiworld Media Network – Colombo

Colombo, Jan 18: India’s 14-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi produced a moment of brilliance near the boundary rope to script a turning point as India defeated Bangladesh by 18 runs via the DLS method in the U-19 World Cup 2026 Group B match on Saturday.

During the 26th over of Bangladesh’s chase, Md Samiun Basir Ratul attempted to clear long-off against Vihaan Malhotra. Suryavanshi, perfectly placed on the rope, took the catch sideways, tossed the ball up before stepping outside the boundary, and then returned inside the field to complete a spectacular relay catch, handing India a crucial breakthrough.

The dismissal triggered a dramatic collapse as off-spinner Vihaan Malhotra went on to claim a sensational 4 for 14, dismantling Bangladesh’s middle order. Bangladesh, who had earlier bowled India out for 238 in a rain-reduced 49-over contest, appeared well on course during the chase before losing eight wickets for just 40 runs.

Chasing a revised target of 165 from 29 overs after a prolonged rain delay, Bangladesh were cruising at 102 for 2 after 20 overs, comfortably ahead of the DLS par score. However, Malhotra found sharp turn and bounce to remove Kalam Siddiki, Sheikh Parvez Jibon, Rizan Hossan and Samiun Basir in a match-defining spell.

Bangladesh skipper Azizul Hakim, who top-scored with a composed 51 off 72 balls, was dismissed by left-arm spinner Khilan Patel while attempting to accelerate, effectively ending the resistance. Henil Patel then cleaned up the tail as Bangladesh were bowled out for 146 in 28.3 overs.

The Ayush Mhatre-led Indian side sealed their second consecutive victory of the tournament, moving to the top of Group B with four points from two matches. Bangladesh and USA are yet to open their accounts, while New Zealand are yet to begin their campaign.