Reddy steers India to victory

Akshath Reddy starred in India’s seven-wicket victory over England in the Super League play-off match of the ICC U-19 World Cup at Christchurch.

Reddy, playing his first match of the tournament, hit a brilliant 94 to help India reach the winning total in just 36.4 overs in reply to England’s 176.

England won the toss and elected to bat. Some tight bowling from Sandeep Sharma and Saurav Netrawalker made England batsmen struggle in the first 10 overs. Opener Jos Buttler played till the end and scored the highest, 78 runs, to help England reach 176 in 49.2 overs.

Ateeq Javid was the second highest scorer for England. He made 34 runs. Once Javid lost his wicket to the Indian captain, Ashok Menaria, none of the remaining batsmen could provide any support to Butler and England were eventually dismissed for 176 in the final over. Menaria led the Indian attack well and accounted for four wickets.

India started their target chase on a high note and brought up their 50 within the first 10 overs. Reddy was in top form and troubled the English attack, hitting two sixes during his impressive knock. He was eventually dismissed six runs short of his century by Nathan Buck.

Mandeep Singh made a quick-fire 21 off 20 balls in the end to lead India to victory in the 37th over.